Putin orders fourth expansion of Russian army this year, adding 15,500 troops

President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday increasing the authorized strength of the Russian army by 15,500 personnel. This marks the fourth such expansion of the armed forces this year, bringing the total authorized strength to over 2.44 million. The decree also placed the Russian assets of German retailer Metro under temporary management.

These troop increases occur against a backdrop of significant military spending and ongoing geopolitical tensions. The expansion suggests a sustained focus on bolstering Russia's military capacity. The temporary seizure of foreign assets indicates a broader economic strategy aimed at consolidating control over key businesses operating within Russia.