Kremlin May Impose Martial Law and New Mobilization After Elections, Sources Say
According to sources cited by independent Russian media 'Verstka', the Kremlin is considering unpopular measures including martial law, a new wave of mobilization, and stricter censorship after the parliamentary elections.
Independent Russian outlet 'Verstka', citing multiple sources in political and security structures, reports that the Kremlin may implement several unpopular decisions following the parliamentary elections. The protracted war in Ukraine has significantly drained state resources, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire.
A source in the State Duma told the outlet: 'The situation in the country is becoming more and more serious… It may no longer be possible to stabilize it without extreme measures.' Among the options considered are the introduction of martial law or its elements, which would require only a presidential decree from Vladimir Putin.
Representatives of security structures support this move, believing it is time to forcibly involve the public more widely in the war. A new wave of mobilization is also becoming more likely, as the Russian armed forces face a severe shortage of troops and their advance on the battlefield has slowed significantly.
Eight Kremlin-linked sources, one close to the Federal Security Service (FSB), and several military commissariat sources confirmed that preparations are underway, but a final decision has not yet been made. One source indicated that 'very tough decisions' could be made in the fall if the number of contract soldiers cannot be increased. Another source noted that regions lack funds for large enlistment bonuses, and the Defense Ministry struggles even to provide equipment.
Due to economic difficulties, authorities are considering cuts to social guarantees, tax increases, and even forced use of citizens' bank deposits for state needs. Further tightening of censorship and repression is also expected.
Journalist Ivan Yakovina believes these developments could accelerate the weakening of the current Russian political regime. He points out that Putin has already signed a decree to increase the armed forces' strength and instructed the preparation of a new budget for continued war – making mobilization almost inevitable and likely to cause strong shocks.
