The Ukraine invasion has not gone well for Russia. The old imperial power looks less and less likely to succeed in its mission. The fact Kyiv still stands is one reason. Another is the continued replenishing of the Ukrainian frontlines against its onslaught. The third is unwavering support from Western powers against Putin’s aggression.
The ongoing recruitment exercise in Russia, then, is an admission that its effort is weak. The initial concept of one soldier from every family has fallen flat. The news from inside the country is that recruiters have gone into other domains to band together for their next push. The end is in sight as less and less expertise reaches the frontlines.
In Moscow, the line is straightforward. Damage control is a pastime for political managers of state. The remote conferences and personal phone calls full of apologies and false assurances are old hat for a nation used to the chaos of military mobilisation. The return to control is longed for and as it happens regional leaders will be happier.