Russia weighs fresh mobilization after Duma elections as recruitment falters

Meduza reports that Russian authorities are weighing a new mobilization after the State Duma elections, with October as a possible start, as contract recruitment slows to about 800 signups per day in early 2026 (the lowest in three years) before rising to roughly 1,000 per day in Q2, per estimates based on budget data. Regions describe growing difficulty in recruiting, with some contracts offered to detainees or recruited through police, and many new contract soldiers being desertors or barely fit for service. The situation has spurred intensified propaganda and higher payments, and discussions range from partial mobilization to rotating reservists, though no final decision has been made. Some officials say preparatory measures have been underway for months.