“They Will Hang Me”: Reports Say Putin Fears Ukraine Defeat and Plans to Send 400,000 More Russians to War

Reports say Vladimir Putin may be preparing to mobilize as many as 400,000 additional Russians for the war in Ukraine, while privately fearing defeat. The claims have not been independently verified, and details about any potential recruitment plan remain unclear. A new mobilization could intensify pressure on Russia’s economy, military, and society, while increasing casualties and domestic discontent. The reports also highlight uncertainty surrounding Moscow’s strategy as the conflict continues with no clear political settlement in sight there.