Kremlin Prepares for Mobilization as Putin Downplays Deepening Fuel Crisis

The Kremlin is preparing legal and security measures that could support a renewed mobilization, according to the Institute for the Study of War. After Russia’s State Duma approved legislation allowing people with active criminal records to sign contracts with the Defense Ministry during mobilization periods, analysts say Moscow may be building a larger recruitment pool while also expanding internal security powers through National Guard proposals. At the same time, Putin is downplaying the crisis publicly, claiming Russia’s economy remains stable even as fuel shortages deepen and domestic discontent grows.