Zelenskyy Assessed the Possibility of Mobilization in Russia After the Elections

During a press conference at the “Ukraine–Southeast Europe” summit in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that after the parliamentary elections, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin may resort to a new wave of mobilization. According to him, the elections themselves will not lead to an escalation, as their outcome is predictable in advance; however, they will serve as a starting point for the Kremlin to make new aggressive decisions.

The head of state explained that intensifying conscription is a more financially advantageous move for Moscow than recruiting new contract soldiers. He emphasized that Putin will not be able to significantly increase the number of contract soldiers, as this would require paying enormous sums of money, whereas forced mobilization allows the army to be replenished without signing costly contracts.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy assured that Ukraine is carefully assessing these risks and preparing in advance for any possible enemy actions. At the same time, he added that there has been a rapid increase in the number of Russian citizens who no longer support the war of aggression and are calling for its end, especially in Russia’s border regions.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia is preparing a new wave of mobilization involving at least tens of thousands of people. According to him, the situation was discussed during a detailed meeting on defense issues. The head of state also heard reports from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Andriy Hnatov.

Russia may announce another mobilization this fall amid the difficult situation on the Ukrainian front, the failure of the winter-spring offensive, and significant losses. This was stated by State Duma Deputy Andriy Gurulov, who linked the possible decision to Russia’s military setbacks in the war against Ukraine.