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Medvedev Says Russia Needs Bigger Troops to Defend Itself. PHOTO/Reuters
MOSCOW – Russia should increase the size his military to be able to defend yourself. This was stated by Dmitry Medvedev, former president and current deputy chairman of the country’s Security Council.
“In order to successfully defend itself, Moscow needs an army with a mix of recruits and contract personnel,” Medvedev said in response to a question from a user on the Russian social network VK, on Saturday (25/3/2023).
“Our army must be bigger, at least 1.5 million people,” Medvedev continued, as quoted by Anadolu Agency.
Last year, Russia unveiled plans to beef up its armed forces to 1.5 million combat personnel from 1.15 million. Several top-level meetings have been held to discuss this issue.
Another topic Medvedev discussed was measures to prevent “foreign agents” from making money in Russia, referring to people he says discredited the country after moving abroad.
“If you want to live there, stay there. If you want to say bad things about Russia, feel free. But you can’t earn money in Russia,” said Medvedev, who previously served as president and prime minister.
Russian lawmakers have proposed measures to cut off access to finance for people who have fled the country and condemned its actions against Ukraine.
Medvedev believes that this year will be the year of Russia’s awakening. “2023 will be a good and happy year for our country,” he said.
“I believe that 2023 will be a heterogeneous year, as well as dramatic, but, on the other hand, it will enable us to answer the most challenging questions. It will reveal the true heroism of our people,” said the politician.
(esn)