President Vladimir Putin has mandated an increase in the size of Russia's armed forces, raising the number of active servicemen by 15,500 to a total of 1,550,500. This decree, part of a series of similar orders this year, comes amid heavy casualties on both sides in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Analysts had anticipated some form of mobilization following the recent State Duma elections, which saw the ruling United Russia party secure a record number of seats, a result largely seen as predetermined.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated that Russia is initiating a new wave of military mobilization, claiming that over 8,000 North Korean troops are currently in Russia, with plans to deploy an additional 10,000. Zelenskyy also noted that Russia is providing technology in exchange for North Korean military support, including the production of Shahed-type drones.
The situation remains tense, with recent Russian attacks on Kyiv resulting in casualties, and diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution to the conflict have stalled. As winter approaches, both Ukraine and Russia face significant challenges, with Zelenskyy warning of a harsh winter ahead if a truce is not reached soon