The US Institute for the Study of War (ISW) states that Moscow may also be preparing for possible civil unrest that could arise after such a decision.
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In its latest review, ISW noted several recent events, including the bill passed yesterday by the Russian State Duma, which allows the authorities to recruit citizens with unexpunged or still valid criminal records for war.
However, Vladimir Putin and his officials seem to understand the unpopularity of such a move, and therefore, it is said, may be preparing to declare martial law, anticipating possible unrest.
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ISW added:
“It is not yet clear whether Putin will make such a decision in the near future and what his mobilization announcement might look like.”
Earlier today, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged this, stating that Russia is losing “more than 5,000-6,000 troops per week” and called it a “staggering number”.
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