The draft notice.
Ekaterina Bodyagina
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a partial mobilization after setbacks in Ukraine.
The move has sparked protests across Russia, with many also leaving the country.
Insider spoke to one Russian man that was called up and obtained a copy of his draft summons.
This is an edited, translated version of an article that originally appeared on September 28, 2022.
Thousands of Russians have begun to flee the country to avoid being drafted to fight in Ukraine after President Vladimir Putin announced a partial mobilization, which will see 300,000 reservists called up.
Protests have also continued to spread, with many facing arrest.
One, who asked to be identified only as “Nikita” for security reasons, spoke to Insider about how he was handed military summons letters while still in custody.
He told Insider he received it at a Moscow police station, where he had been taken after being arrested at a demonstration.
The 29-year-old said he had no military experience beyond being drafted him when he was 19. He was classified as unfit for service a month later, he added.
“I am a pacifist and anti-militarist. During all these months of war, I’ve felt helpless, confused, and terrified. I’ve cried a lot,” he said.
The summons required Nikita to appear in person at the military commissariat.
This is what it says:
“According to the Federal Law of the Russian Federation dated 28.03.1998 №52-FZ ‘on conscription and military service,’ you are obliged to appear for mobilization from September 22 2022 to …. 2022 at the Military Commissariat … address: … telephone: …
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Break from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bring your passport, military ID, and this summons.
Military commissioner of the military commissariat
(Seal, Signature)”