Kremlin luring young men into war in Ukraine with false promises of ‘quiet service’

Russia’s recruitment ads on social media soared by more than 40% in the first half of 2025, with many promotions emphasizing a “quiet service.” Critics and analysts warn that this language could conceal the harsh reality of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ads seeking non-combat roles, especially drivers, have even outnumbered those for combat positions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Russian military recruitment ads surged by over 40% in 2025.
  • Authorities are promoting a so-called “quiet service” despite active conflict in Ukraine.
  • Ads for driver roles outpaced combat posts by April.
  • A London think tank conducted the analysis.
  • The shift in recruitment strategy raises questions about real service conditions.

The Surge in Military Recruitment

Army recruitment ads on Russian social media rose by more than 40% in the first half of 2025, a striking statistic that suggests a push by the Kremlin to bolster its forces. An analysis by a London think tank found a marked increase in the frequency and reach of these ads, which target young men across the country.

Promise of ‘Quiet Service’

Many of these recruitment ads emphasize a supposedly “quiet service” in Ukraine, downplaying any suggestion of frontline combat. The phrase has sparked concern among observers who say it obscures the potential risks faced by recruits. Despite international headlines about the intensity of the ongoing conflict, Russian authorities appear to be framing military duty as safer and more routine than it likely is.

Non-Combat Roles in High Demand

A particularly revealing statistic is that by April, ads seeking drivers had outnumbered those for all combat roles combined. This shift in focus underscores a strategy to fill logistical or support roles, possibly indicating that the Kremlin wishes to present more appealing options in order to draw in new recruits.

Questions and Criticisms

Critics point out that the Kremlin’s messaging may mislead individuals who are not fully aware of the dangers involved in military service. These concerns echo in the coverage of foreign policy experts, who continue to track Russia’s tactics in recruiting new forces for its efforts in Ukraine.

Looking Ahead

As the conflict in Ukraine persists, ads spotlighting “quiet service” are likely to remain prominent in Russian social media feeds, reflecting broader strategies by the Kremlin to meet military needs. It remains to be seen whether these recruitment efforts will translate into sustained enlistment numbers—or if disillusionment will follow for those who expect one reality and encounter another on the ground.

More from World

Russia's "Quiet Service" Recruitment Surges 40%
by New York Post
16 hours ago
2 mins read
Kremlin luring young men into war in Ukraine with false promises of ‘quiet service’
Burnley Climbs Out of Relegation with Win
by Burnley Express
16 hours ago
1 min read
Burnley 2-0 Leeds United: Clarets move out of the bottom three with crucial win
LeBron Faces Renewed Controversy Post-ESPN Allegations
by Yardbarker
16 hours ago
2 mins read
LeBron James Accused of Manipulating ESPN Reporter After Stephen A. Smith Exposes Old Wounds
Bare-Knuckle Hockey League Sparks Controversy
by The Sun
16 hours ago
2 mins read
Brutal bare knuckle boxing league for on-ice hockey fights with ‘effective aggressiveness’ leaves fans divided
Luis Arraez Wants to Stay with Padres
by Si
16 hours ago
2 mins read
Luis Arraez Sends Clear Message to Padres Front Office Ahead of Free Agency
Mavericks Bolster Frontcourt with Key Signings
by Yahoo! News
17 hours ago
1 min read
The Mavericks have signed forward Matt Cross, center …
10 Hospitalized, 1 in Critical Condition After Balcony Collapse Near University of Cincinnati
Eco-Luxury Meets Wildlife in Hwange, Zimbabwe
by Travel And Tour World
17 hours ago
2 mins read
Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge in Hwange, Zimbabwe Offers Eco-Friendly Luxury, Wildlife Experiences, and a Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Lakers Face Injuries as Season Approaches
by Si
17 hours ago
2 mins read
Lakers Notes: Big Man Suffers Injury, Starting Lineup Revealed, Bronny James Hurt
Dodgers Notes: LA Advances to World Series, Shohei Ohtani Makes History, Will Smith Injury Update
Ohtani Leads Dodgers to World Series Glory
by The Mirror Us
18 hours ago
1 min read
JJ Watt, Derek Carr and others says what fans think about Shohei Ohtani’s NLCS domination
Uber driver carjacked at gunpoint by 2 masked suspects, Norwood police say