Russia has shifted to a year-round conscription system. Here’s what that means for the country’s young men.

April traditionally marks the start of Russia’s spring conscription campaign for mandatory military service. But this year, things have changed — conscription now runs year-round. Much about how the new system works is already becoming clear: restrictions on draft-eligible men are being imposed more often, enforcement is tightening, and the risk of ending up in a combat zone remains high. To understand how the process is changing and what risks potential conscripts and their families face, Meduza spoke with lawyers specializing in military law.