
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on Monday authorizing the deployment of reservists to protect oil refineries and other energy infrastructure in the country, a move linked to frequent Ukrainian attacks targeting such facilities almost every week.
Drone attacks are damaging oil and gas plants and pipelines that supply the market with hydrocarbons, and authorities say they have led to increasing pressure on fuel prices.
The text signed by Putin leaves open the possibility of sending reservists "to ensure the protection of necessary facilities" upon a request from the government. Those who participate will be provided with financial compensation.
By September 2022, Russia had mobilized approximately 300,000 reservists for the war in Ukraine, several months after the Russian offensive began. However, no general mobilization has been declared in Russia since the start of the conflict, as the military has been bolstering its ranks through volunteers who receive high salaries and social benefits.