Putin has just announced the drafting of troops throughout Russia: 

The West is conducting nuclear blackmail, we have many weapons to respond with – this is not a bluff.”

The Russian president has delivered a dramatic speech to the nation, and, in the shadow of the severe defeats of his army in Kharkiv and the advance of the Ukrainian forces, he has announced a “partial military draft”.  

In the background are the referendums that began on Friday in four occupied Ukrainian districts on annexation to Russia. 

The recruitment begins today and comes following the reports of Russians defecting from the army and refusing orders.

The Russian parliament has approved imposing up to 10 years in prison for soldiers who do not comply.

The main points of Putin’s speech:

• The West wants to weaken, divide and destroy Russia.
• The partial recruitment is to support our compatriots and allow them to determine their own future.
• Special operation objectives unchanged.
• West directed Kyiv to undermine peace talks – after initial negotiations were somewhat positive.
• Only reservists, those who served in the armed forces, with military specialties and relevant experience will be subject to recruitment.

And more nuclear threats from the Russian Defense Minister: “All types of weapons, including the nuclear capability, fulfill their missions”

By Amir Tsfarti