Concerns are growing in Russia that President Vladimir Putin could order a new large-scale mobilisation for the war in Ukraine following this weekend’s parliamentary elections, according to Bloomberg.
The concerns reportedly extend to Kremlin officials and personnel at military recruitment centres. Documents reviewed by Bloomberg indicate that some have sought to open foreign bank accounts, move assets abroad and encourage friends and relatives to leave Russia in recent months.
Putin has denied plans for another mobilisation. However, a European security official told Bloomberg that Russia is preparing to draft another 300,000 people by the end of the year.
Unlike the September 2022 mobilisation, which prompted tens of thousands of Russians to leave the country, a new call-up may not be formally announced
According to the report, the Kremlin has been developing digital systems to facilitate military conscription while also restricting potential routes for people seeking to leave the country.
The reported preparations come amid continued Russian military operations in Ukraine and speculation over the Kremlin’s plans to replenish its forces.
By Sabina Mammadli
