Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a public warning that Russia is preparing to mobilize an additional 300,000 troops following upcoming September elections, as fears grow of a major new offensive in the Donetsk region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia is planning to mobilize as many as 300,000 additional troops after its September elections, in what could mark one of the largest call-ups since the full-scale invasion began. Zelensky stated that intelligence indicates the mobilization is being prepared to launch a renewed offensive focused on the Donetsk region.
"We have clear information that Russia is preparing to mobilize 300,000 people," Zelensky said in an official address. "They are waiting for the elections to end, and then they will send these people to war. They want to increase pressure on our front lines and advance in Donetsk." Zelensky added that Ukraine is already taking steps to strengthen its defenses and prepare for the expected wave of new Russian forces.
According to Ukrainian officials, the mobilization is expected to be announced shortly after Russia’s September elections, allowing authorities to call up new recruits without immediate public backlash. Intelligence reports suggest the troops would be deployed to the front lines beginning in late autumn, with the goal of breaking Ukrainian defenses in key eastern regions.
The warning comes as fighting continues across the front, with heavy battles reported in several areas of Donetsk Oblast. Ukrainian forces have been holding off Russian advances for months, but a fresh influx of 300,000 troops could significantly shift the balance of power.
Zelensky also called on Western allies to speed up the delivery of military aid, stating that Ukraine needs increased support — including long-range weapons, air defense systems, and artillery — to counter the expected Russian buildup. "We cannot wait until they come. We must be ready now," he said. "Every delay costs lives."
There has been no immediate official comment from Russia on the mobilization claims. Previous Russian mobilization drives have drawn criticism for their methods and the impact they have had on Russian society.