China has warned its citizens in Russia about a new law that requires foreigners to serve in the Russian army. The law, adopted in November 2025, obliges male permanent residents aged 18 to 65 to serve at least one year in order to apply for citizenship or a residence permit. Exemptions are provided for Belarusian citizens, those who have already served, or those unfit for service.
Source: Gazeta.UA
The Chinese consulate did not warn of direct danger from service but urged citizens to make cautious decisions to maintain legal residency status. Analysts believe this signals China’s concern about the possible forced military service of its citizens.
Previously, Russia conducted raids against migrants with expired or missing documents, forcing them to serve under threat of criminal liability or deportation. Experts note that preparations to draft reservists indicate the Kremlin’s plans to compensate for personnel shortages, and the Chinese consulate’s statement may indicate the use of new mechanisms for compulsory recruitment of foreigners living in Russia.