Russia plans to mobilize about 409,000 additional troops in 2026 and is already ramping up combat activity on the front line as weather conditions improve.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, reported this.
Russia Prepares New Forces
Syrskyi said Russia’s plans show its intention to continue aggression against Ukraine and expand its military capacity.
“In 2026, Russia plans to recruit another 409,000 troops. This means one thing – the enemy does not abandon its intentions and continues preparing for further aggression against Ukraine.”
He also noted that improving weather conditions have led to increased Russian activity on the battlefield.
“With better weather conditions, we see growing enemy activity on the front line”.
Strengthening Defense and Fortifications
Syrskyi said he held an оперативна meeting on engineering and fortification of defensive lines. Key priorities include strengthening fortifications, improving anti-drone protection systems, and preparing населений points for defense.
Military commanders, representatives of the State Special Transport Service, and regional military administration leaders took part in the meeting. Syrskyi added that officials have already identified key problems and set specific solutions and deadlines.
“The quality and speed of these tasks will determine the resilience of our defense and the lives of Ukrainian soldiers.”
Context
According to the General Staff of Ukraine, 235 combat engagements took place along the front line on March 18 alone. The heaviest fighting occurred near Pokrovsk, where Russian forces launched more than 50 attacks.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Forces disrupted a planned Russian strategic offensive operation for March 2026.
Previously The Ukrainian Review reported that Ukrainian forces liberated more than 400 square kilometers of territory during counteroffensive operations and restored control over most of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
