Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law granting debt relief to those who enroll in the military. The move taken on Saturday is seen as a step to recruit more troops to fight in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The law grants forgiveness of debt in arrears of up to 10 million rubles, or about 96,000 dollars, to new recruits if they sign up for a contract of one year or longer on December 1 or later. The measure also applies to their spouses.

The Putin administration has been trying to recruit contract soldiers rather than increasing troop mobilization, which has faced persistent public discontent.

High pay for contract soldiers and a pardon for convicted prisoners who enroll in the army have been offered.

Russia also appears to be recruiting foreign nationals to strengthen its forces to fight in Ukraine.

The Financial Times reported on Sunday that Russia has sent hundreds of Yemeni mercenaries to the front lines in Ukraine.

The report says the men were offered jobs, high salaries and even Russian citizenship, but forced to join the military after arriving in Russia.

Some Indian and Nepali nationals have also been confirmed among foreigners hired by the Russian forces.