Despite offering generous bonuses to potential soldiers, Russia's military recruitment fell 20% in the first quarter of this year compared to 2025.
Russia's severe labor shortage is straining both its defense industry and civilian economy.
Russia's military recruitment issues could potentially force President Vladimir Putin to order another unpopular mobilization – a step he's taken extreme measures to avoid.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
What would you do with an $80,000 bonus, more than quadruple the amount of an average annual salary? Or with $140,000 in debt relief?
