Russian Military Personnel to Increase to 2.3 Million
Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently signed a decree to mobilize an additional 180,000 military personnel, bringing the total number of troops in the Russian Armed Forces to 2,389,130. This decision will take effect on December 1 of this year, marking a significant increase from the current 2.2 million personnel. The move comes amidst ongoing conflicts and tensions in Ukraine, with Putin previously increasing the number of forces to 1,150,628 at the start of the war on February 24, 2022.
Challenges Faced by Russian Forces
According to reports from the Kyiv Independent, Ukrainian officials believe that the Kremlin is covertly recruiting around 30,000 troops per month due to high losses of soldiers within Russian forces. It is estimated that to date, approximately 630,000 Russian troops have been killed, wounded, or captured during the conflict. Military-political expert Oleksandr Kovalenko of the “Information Resistance” group highlighted several challenges faced by the Russian military, including shortages in manpower, equipment, leadership, and morale.
Kovalenko emphasized that the increase in troops indicates that Putin’s forces are struggling in the war with Ukraine, resorting to throwing more personnel into the conflict to compensate for deficiencies in other areas. He noted that the Russian army is likely to become a large infantry-focused battalion with limited equipment, as production capabilities have dwindled. The expert also mentioned that the Kremlin is offering monetary incentives, such as 2 million rubles, to recruit volunteers due to mobilization challenges and lack of interest in joining the Russian army.
The Impact of Increased Military Mobilization
The decision to mobilize an additional 180,000 troops in the Russian Armed Forces is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and regional stability. With concerns about the Kremlin’s recruitment tactics and the challenges faced by Russian forces, the escalation of military personnel raises questions about the sustainability of Putin’s military strategy.
Experts warn that a larger military presence may lead to intensified fighting and higher casualties on both sides, further complicating efforts to reach a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The influx of new recruits could also strain already limited resources and infrastructure, potentially impacting the overall effectiveness of Russian military operations in Ukraine.
As the situation continues to evolve, it remains crucial for international observers and policymakers to closely monitor developments in the region and assess the implications of Putin’s decision to increase military mobilization. The escalation of the conflict underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and work towards a sustainable peace agreement that addresses the root causes of the crisis.
In conclusion, Putin’s decree to mobilize an additional 180,000 military personnel in the Russian Armed Forces reflects the challenges and complexities of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and diplomacy in order to achieve a lasting and peaceful resolution to the crisis.