Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday signed into law a law facilitating the conscription of Russians into army units, a bill that was approved within two days by the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, according to Russian news agencies.

Under the new law, a reservist will now be able to be recruited through an online portal of the Russian civil service or even if the command is handed over to a third party.

Until now, subpoenas had to be delivered by hand.

President Vladimir Putin had ordered the mobilization of 300,000 reservists by September 2022, the implementation of which has often been chaotic.

Moscow says it drafted at least 300,000 men last year to bolster its “special military operation” in Ukraine.

Although the Kremlin denies it wants to launch a second wave, many in Russia are worried as the Ukrainian military prepares a major counteroffensive.

The police have the right to prosecute those who resist, who risk prison terms. The tax office, universities and other public organizations will have a duty to provide the personal details of the recruits.

Refusal to report to the conscription office will consequently deprive Russians of the ability to work as entrepreneurs or self-employed, to obtain loans or to own their own residence and car.

These measures also concern Russians who have left their country and are working remotely.

The previous conscription in September 2022 had caused tens of thousands of Russians to flee abroad.