The article analyzes the historical-legal aspects of enlisting foreign citizens for military service in the Russian Armed Forces from 1994 to 2020. It examines the evolution of legislation, key federal laws of 2003–2019, Ministry of Defense orders, and specifics of staffing units, including military bases abroad. Special attention is given to the 2003–2010 period, restrictions on positions, education, and service terms, as well as challenges of the SVO.