Will Putin announce new mobilization after election? Here's what Zelenskyy says
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (facebook.com/zelenskyy.official)
The Kremlin may resort to a new wave of mobilization in Russia after the presidential election, as it would allow Moscow to avoid the significant financial costs associated with recruiting contract soldiers, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during a press conference.
Why Putin may announce a new mobilization
According to the Ukrainian president, Russia's presidential election serves as a milestone after which Russian President Vladimir Putin could move forward with new escalation measures. One of the most likely scenarios is an expansion of military conscription.
"We understand that this could involve either an increase in mobilization. What you mentioned is one of the obvious steps, but it requires money. In other words, he will not be able to significantly expand contract recruitment because it requires paying large sums. Therefore, he may opt for increased mobilization, where there is no need to sign such costly contracts," Zelenskyy explained.
The president stressed that Ukraine is assessing these risks and must prepare in advance for potential decisions by the Kremlin.
In addition to mobilization, Moscow still has other options for escalating the situation on the battlefield, which Putin will likely try to use either to gain an advantage in combat or to exert pressure on other countries.
Path to negotiations and Western support
At the same time, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said there is another possible scenario — the continuation of active operations by Ukraine's Defense Forces. According to him, such actions could force the Kremlin to come to the negotiating table.
The president said he had shared with European Union leaders and the US president his vision of what Ukraine needs in order to accelerate that process.
Other statements by the president
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about a secret agreement with the Middle East. He confirmed that such arrangements exist, but said their details cannot be disclosed at this time for security reasons.
A major reshuffle of Ukraine's diplomatic corps is also expected. Zelenskyy announced upcoming changes among ambassadors, noting that several Ukrainian diplomats serving abroad, including in the United States, will leave their posts once consultations are completed.
Meanwhile, Kyiv is actively expanding defense cooperation with its European partners. Ukraine and the EU have taken a step toward a Drone Deal by launching a new partnership framework. The initiative will not be limited to drones and is expected to serve as a foundation for the joint production of other types of advanced weaponry.
