Putin Orders Largest Military Call-Up in Years Amidst Ukraine War
Despite a purported agreement to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, Russia’s spring conscription has begun, calling up 160,000 men—10,000 more than the previous year. This follows heavy Russian military losses in Ukraine, prompting a tripling of the military’s size since the invasion began. The increased draft, coupled with recruitment of contract soldiers and foreign fighters, aims to replenish forces depleted by the ongoing conflict. Simultaneously, neighboring Finland, citing increased military threats, is increasing defense spending and abandoning its commitment to the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines.
John Q. Hosedrinker