Zelenskyy reveals Putin's plan for rapid mobilization in Russia

The head of state made the statement following a briefing by Oleh Ivashchenko, head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine. He said that Russia's preparations for mobilization are confirmed by internal Russian documents.

"They are preparing it for the fall, right after the imitation of parliamentary elections. Putin's plan is not particularly complicated: he wants to create the impression that Russians supposedly support the war — all the parties that are currently allowed to participate are, one way or another, against peace," Zelenskyy said.

After that, he added, the Kremlin chief plans an additional "rapid mobilization" of several hundred thousand Russians by the end of the year, plus another several hundred thousand the following year. Zelenskyy noted that this would be in addition to the recruitment Moscow is trying to carry out through military contracts.

"Russian contingent losses on Ukrainian territory amount to at least 30,000 people every month, and 60% of them are killed. The overall number of the occupation army on our land has been gradually declining due to our active actions, and above all, our use of drones," the president emphasized.

The head of state said that the Russian leader now believes that additional mobilization and the involvement of troops from North Korea will allow him to prolong the war and intensify assault operations.

Earlier, Zelenskyy warned that large-scale mobilization in Russia would become a direct challenge to Europe. According to him, Putin needs to demonstrate success, and he may seek new quick victories beyond Ukraine.

It should be noted that Ukrainian officials said that the Kremlin is systematically preparing for new mobilization measures, including to replenish losses in the Russian army.