He shared this opinion on Espreso TV.
Kovalenko pointed out, "Putin strategically integrated the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine into the Southern Military District of the Russian Federation ahead of the elections. This move aims to showcase the 'special military operation' as beneficial for Russia, creating the perception of territorial expansion and the emergence of new military districts."
Kovalenko underscored the danger for Russia in attempting mobilization in these areas.
"The FSB of the Russian Federation views the local population in the temporarily occupied territories as unreliable. While they can mobilize individuals in these regions, there are two categories within the local population – pro-Russian volunteers and covert agents. Some inhabitants hate Russia, making the mobilization process risky. Entrusting weapons to those who hate you is a bad idea for them. Therefore, there's a tangible threat for Russia in executing mobilization in these temporarily occupied territories," he stated.