New Rules for Special Call-ups of Russian Reservists

Military Commissioner of Nizhny Novgorod Region Sergei Agafonov has explained the new rules for conducting special call-ups for the mobilization reserve, which were introduced at the end of 2025.

Feb 28, 2026

The Nizhny Novgorod region«s mobilization reserve, known as »BARS-NN,« is part of the new call-up system.
Source:
Elena Latypova / NGS55.RU

At the end of 2025, amendments to legislation on the mobilization reserve were adopted in Russia, introducing the concept of «special call-ups».

The new rules are established by two documents: a decree of the Russian government and a presidential decree, which regulate the procedure for conducting such call-ups for citizens in the reserve.

The changes affect, in particular, the Nizhny Novgorod mobilization reserve «BARS-NN.» Military Commissioner of the region Sergei Agafonov emphasized that the concept of «special call-ups» has been enshrined at the legislative level for the first time.

«The term »special call-ups« has no association with the special military operation. A clear definition has been given. The participation of reservists in special call-ups involves the protection and guarding of critically important facilities within the regions. This should not be confused with military call-ups, which prepare people for military service,» Agafonov explained.

The updated norms also define the maximum duration of special call-ups—no more than six months within a calendar year.

The «BARS-NN» reserve has been formed since last year. Its participants sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense but are not sent to the special military operation zone, instead serving within Nizhny Novgorod Region to ensure the protection of important facilities. According to the authorities, the heads of 15 districts in the region have joined the ranks of the reservists.