Debt Forgiveness for Russian Soldiers Joining the Ukraine Conflict

Putin announced a new decree that will erase up to 10 million roubles of debt for people who have signed a contract with the defence ministry from May 1 onward, or for their spouses. The debt relief applies only if the creditors had already started a legal claim before that date. Those who join the so‑called “special military operation” must sign a contract for at least one year. The amount forgiven is roughly the cost of a 35‑square‑metre studio apartment in Moscow, according to real‑estate data.

The move is part of a wider package that includes large payments, better university admission chances and other perks for soldiers. Russia wants to strengthen its forces while peace talks with the West have stalled. Ukraine says it will send more troops to its northern areas to counter what it sees as a possible new Russian offensive. In addition, Putin extended the right for soldiers to use state land for housing indefinitely.

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