Signs point to Russia preparing new escalation of war against Ukraine
Several indicators suggest Moscow is preparing to intensify military pressure on Ukraine, including a possible new mobilization wave and expanded ballistic missile strikes. Analysts say the Kremlin wants to project control over the situation.
A number of signs suggest Russia is preparing the next phase of its prolonged war against Ukraine, ramping up military pressure and seeking to regain the initiative on the battlefield. According to Newsweek, Moscow is increasing production of long-range weapons and intensifying missile strikes.
Ukrainian lawmaker Oleh Dunda says that while the front line is moving slowly, Russia has the resources to escalate. He believes the Kremlin sees a window of opportunity while the United States is focused on Iran and Europe's response remains slow. Any major escalation is likely to be postponed until after Russia's own parliamentary elections conclude.
Possible scenarios
Experts and Ukrainian officials consider the use of nuclear weapons unlikely. A far more probable scenario is a new wave of mobilization aimed at fully capturing the Donbas region, combined with intensified strikes on Ukrainian cities. Another opportunity for Russia lies in Ukraine's shortage of air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles — a gap Moscow is already exploiting through heavier ballistic strikes on Kyiv and other populated areas.
Growing North Korean involvement is another sign of preparations for escalation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Moscow plans to bring in roughly 50,000 North Korean troops. Some North Korean forces are already in Russia, while Pyongyang is gaining combat experience it could later use against South Korea.
Possible new mobilization
A new forced conscription wave is expected in Russia after its elections, potentially affecting around 500,000 people, according to Kyiv. Such a step could create economic difficulties for the Kremlin and fuel public discontent.
Zelensky stressed that increased missile production, North Korean involvement and mobilization preparations all indicate Moscow is heading toward escalation rather than peace. He called on the world to act immediately by tightening sanctions on companies supporting Russia's war effort and increasing air defense assistance to Ukraine.
