Kremlin has intensified the push to recruit more soldiers for Russia’s ongoing occupation of Ukraine. 

This is as the war, which began over 13 months ago, takes its toll on Russian resources. Over 15,000 Russian soldiers have reportedly been killed since Moscow invaded their smaller neighbour.

A billboard advertisement erected in the heart of Moscow city bore an inscription: “Did you really dream of being this kind of defender?” The billboard depicts armed men in full combat gear walking across a battlefield in thick fog, the Voice of America reports on Tuesday.

Other advertisements featuring various alluring slogans have become subjects of hot discussion on Russian social media. 

“Our job is defending the motherland,” reads a billboard in the capital, showing soldiers under a big blue sky.

“An honourable job and a decent salary,” says another slogan.

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on, the Russian government has taken several steps to strengthen its military manpower.

Days ago, New York Times reported that the Russian authorities offered HIV-positive inmates antiretroviral medications if they enlist to fight in Ukraine.

Last September, President Vladimir Putin ordered a “partial” military mobilisation of able bodied men. The development elicited wide resistance throughout the nation and forced tens of thousands to evacuate.