Russia prepares legislation for armed protection of its citizens abroad

On March 10, 2026, Russia's Ministry of Defense prepared a legislative draft to amend national citizenship and defense laws, introducing provisions for the extraterritorial deployment of Russian armed forces. This deployment would be authorized by the President specifically to protect Russian citizens living or detained abroad against legal actions by foreign states or international courts lacking Russia's participation or agreement. The draft clarifies that protection applies in cases of detention, criminal charges, or other accusations based on foreign or international rulings that Russia considers unjust or harmful to its interests. The move reflects Moscow's intent to provide a legal basis for military intervention abroad under the guise of protecting its nationals, thereby potentially increasing tensions with other states. The bill is now before the State Duma for parliamentary consideration, representing a significant shift in Russian military and foreign policy doctrine.