Russia’s potential mobilization is serious threat - Chief of Ukrainian Defense Intelligence

During the conversation, Budanov recalled that Russia conducted a partial mobilization in 2022. After that, it did everything possible, regardless of the cost, to avoid conducting another mobilization.

However, this does not change the fact that Moscow could mobilize people again.

“Can Russia carry out a mobilization? Yes. Unfortunately, it is a serious threat. It would be painful for the Russian Federation, but it is realistic. And, unfortunately, such a threat exists,” Budanov said.

When asked whether Russians could deploy large numbers of conscripts, the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate said there is no point in doing so. At the same time, Russia could increase the number of troops it sends to the front if conscripts are mobilized.

Regarding possible anti-war protests, Budanov called them laughable. According to him, there will be public discontent, but it will not stop Russia.

“Look, if they start a mobilization, there will be negative moods in society. They saw this in 2022 when they did it and then immediately tried to stop it as quickly as possible. But will this stop, so to speak, the Russian machine? No, it won’t,” Budanov concluded.

Russia plans to intensify mobilization

Recently, the National Resistance Center stated that Russia intends to increase the pace of mobilization of Ukrainians in the temporarily occupied territories. In particular, the enemy will rely on conscripts and use coercion and intimidation of detainees and prisoners.

Additionally, the Center for Countering Disinformation recently noted that in Russia, there has been talk of creating troops from gamers, who supposedly could learn to operate drones faster. In reality, however, this is part of a process of covert mobilization.