Moscow police detained over 200 people on the evening of Nov. 7, many of whom were minors, during what is being described as a raid near the Kitay-Gorod metro station, according to multiple local Telegram channels.
Detainees told the Russian Telegram channel “Ostorozhno, Novosti” that those over the age of 18 were “persistently” urged to sign a contract with Russia’s Defense Ministry. Reports of police beating the detainees, smashing their phones, and prohibiting them from using the toilet later emerged.
Others claimed that they were served with draft notices at the Tagansky police station. Female students reportedly also received draft notices despite having deferment from military service.
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There is a tiny difference - controversial recruitment is not used against underaged. Or at least I didn’t see any cases of overstepping. It’s not a tool of political silencing. Look at any protests in Ukraine - they are first of all allowed to happen and conducted in civil manner. No one being arrested. Russia uses military service as intimidation and control tool. They are not even trying to pretend their actions are legal.