Putin Orders Russian Army Expansion to 1.55 Million Active Troops 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an increase in the size of the army to 1.55 million active servicemen, according to a presidential decree signed on Monday. The expansion comes as both Russia and Ukraine suffer mounting casualties in the ongoing war, now in its fourth year.

Putin Orders Army Expansion to 1.55 Million Active Troops

The decree raises the total size of Russia's armed forces to 2,441,630 personnel, including 1,550,000 active servicemen. This represents an increase of 15,500 troops compared to previous levels. It follows a similar expansion ordered in August, signaling the Kremlin's determination to sustain its military campaign despite heavy losses.

Military analysts suggest the increase, while modest, reflects ongoing recruitment challenges and the need to rotate exhausted units. Russia's armed forces have relied heavily on contract soldiers and volunteers, but reports indicate difficulties in meeting recruitment targets.

Zelenskyy: North Korean Troops to Be Deployed in Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday that there are now more than 8,000 North Korean troops on Russian territory, with preparations underway to deploy another 10,000. Citing "new data," Zelenskyy stated on X that these troops are "being selected for training and subsequent deployment to Russia."

North Korea has sent an estimated 14,000 to 15,000 troops to support Russia's war effort since 2024, according to Ukrainian and South Korean estimates. Most have been deployed in the Kursk region to help repel a Ukrainian incursion. Both Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un have publicly praised the soldiers as "heroes."

Key Takeaways

• Putin's decree increases active servicemen to 1.55 million, total forces to 2.44 million.
• Zelenskyy reports over 8,000 North Korean troops already in Russia, with 10,000 more expected.
• North Korea has sent an estimated 14,000-15,000 troops since 2024.
• Explosions were heard in Kyiv early Tuesday as Russia continues strikes.

Comparison of Russian and North Korean Troop Levels

Global Implications of the Ukraine War

The deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has raised concerns in the West. The United States and its allies have condemned the deployments, calling them a violation of UN resolutions. In response, South Korea has hinted at reconsidering its policy of not supplying lethal aid to Ukraine.

The war continues to inflict heavy casualties on both sides. Russia's army expansion and North Korea's troop contributions underscore the protracted nature of the conflict. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are pressing for more Western weapons to counter the influx of fresh troops.

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