Russia denies forcing students into drone troops

The Russian Ministry of Defense has issued a formal denial of reports circulating on what it calls 'enemy channels' that claim students are being forced to participate in the Special Military Operation as part of unmanned systems troops. Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Dmitry Afanasyev stated that only six complaints on the matter were received this year, all of which were investigated and unconfirmed. The ministry emphasized that joining the drone troops is strictly voluntary, with contracts offered for 1, 2, or 3 years at the candidate's choice. Additionally, by the end of April, a direct ban will be introduced on transferring servicemen from unmanned units to other formations without their consent, with commanders held personally responsible for violations.