Putin 'Redeemer' Writes Off Rp2.49 Billion Military Debt per Soldier

Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally signed a decree to forgive debts of up to 10 million rubles (Rp2.49 billion) for new military recruits. This extreme measure is part of Moscow’s ongoing strategy to offer financial incentives to attract more men to fight in Ukraine. According to AFP on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, the large-scale debt cancellation was launched by the Kremlin after Russia consistently offered lucrative salaries for over four years to men enlisting in the full-scale offensive against Ukraine. The decree, issued directly by the Kremlin, applies specifically to Russian citizens and their spouses who sign military contracts from 1 May this year. The government mandates that contracts must be for a minimum one-year term and specifically for special military operations—the Kremlin’s official term for the war against Ukraine. This debt forgiveness is Moscow’s latest economic support measure for troops on the Ukrainian frontline. Russia’s economy has been in a state of war readiness for over four years, with military logistics taking priority over other domestic sectors. In addition to financial incentives such as debt relief and high salaries, Putin has consistently advocated for social mobility programmes for Ukrainian war veterans, urging that returning fighters be given prestigious professional roles upon their return home.