Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia is preparing for a new wave of mass mobilization, which, according to Ukrainian intelligence, may begin after the elections to the State Duma. In his evening video address, Zelensky reported that by the end of this year, the Russian authorities allegedly plan to draft several hundred thousand people into the army, and next year — as many again. The parliamentary elections in Russia are scheduled for September 18–20. According to Zelensky, it is after their completion that Moscow may begin to implement these plans. The President of Ukraine also linked the possible mobilization to the political situation in Russia. He stated that the authorities aim to create the impression of broad support for the war, and then move on to new measures to replenish the army. The day before, the Supreme Court of Russia banned the liberal party "Yabloko" from participating in the September elections to the State Duma. As previously noted, this party remained the only registered political force openly opposing the war. According to Zelensky, Ukraine is preparing to do everything possible to complicate the implementation of any potential plans by Russia for a new mobilization. The Russian authorities have not yet confirmed the Ukrainian president's statements regarding the preparation for a new mass mobilization.
