Russian military recruitment numbers spike following Moscow concert hall attack

Russia has seen a spike in men signing contracts to join the military following the Moscow concert hall attack where a gunman killed at least 144 people.

In a statement, the Russian defense ministry said more than 100,000 people have signed contracts with the armed forces since the start of the year, including about 16,000 in the past 10 days alone.

"During interviews conducted over the past week at selection points in Russian cities, most candidates indicated the desire to avenge those killed in the tragedy that occurred on March 22, 2024 in the Moscow region as the main motive for concluding a contract," the ministry said.