Medvedev dismisses mobilization rumors as 'paid-for provocation' and Ukrainian propaganda
Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev has denied rumors of a possible new mobilization in Russia this fall, calling them 'nonsense' and a 'lying provocation' by Ukraine.
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, publicly dismissed speculation about a potential new wave of mobilization in Russia this autumn, calling the reports false and paid for. According to state news agency TASS, Medvedev stated that the enemy's attempts to spread 'nonsense' about mobilization preparations are nothing but a 'lying provocation.'
Medvedev linked these claims to a propaganda campaign ahead of upcoming elections, arguing that such rumors are intended to destabilize the situation in the country. Speaking at a Security Council meeting on troop recruitment, he announced that the Defense Ministry had signed contracts with approximately 200,000 people in the first half of 2026. He asserted that Ukraine is suffering from a manpower shortage and is therefore spreading these rumors.
However, sources who spoke with Meduza and other outlets reported in late June that the number of volunteers willing to serve in the Russian military under contract has been gradually declining, forcing authorities to intensify recruitment campaigns and increase payments. The Kremlin is also reportedly considering more radical measures, including a new mobilization.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently claimed, citing intelligence data, that Vladimir Putin intends to carry out a mobilization after the State Duma elections in September.
