Putin may send conscripts to fight in Ukraine war, British intelligence suggests

This is reported by British intelligence.

The report mentions that draftees are typically not sent to fight in the war, but last year, it is likely that some were involved in combat operations in Russia's Kursk region after Ukraine's operation began in August 2024. This caused dissatisfaction among parents, who complained that their sons were sent to the combat zone after only four months of training. It is noted that up to 1,000 Russian draftees were sent to the Kursk region, 250 of whom were captured.

The intelligence also reminded that in Russia, conscription occurs twice a year – in the spring and fall. The previous draft cycle began on October 1, 2024. This draft is the largest since 2011 and corresponds to the Russian Ministry of Defense's December 2022 announcement to increase the total number of military personnel to 1.5 million by the end of 2026.

"Russia has likely suffered over 900,000 casualties while fighting in Ukraine. To replace these losses and sustain the war effort, conscripts will almost certainly be pressured to sign permanent military contracts, which make eligible for duty in Ukraine," the report states.

• The United Kingdom has officially introduced a new level of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme, which includes Russia. From now on, anyone acting in Russia's interests in the country must openly declare their activities.