Russia may announce a new mobilization: the Kremlin is already changing the laws

Russia is likely preparing for a new wave of official mobilization and possible martial law, as indicated by recent legislative changes and actions by the Russian authorities, which are simultaneously strengthening mechanisms for controlling the population.

This was reported by analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

According to experts, one of the main signals was the decision of the Russian State Duma, which on July 22 adopted a law that allows citizens with outstanding or unexpunged criminal records to enter into contracts with the Ministry of Defense during official mobilization. The new rules apply even to individuals convicted of serious crimes, including those related to drugs and organized crime.

“These changes will significantly expand the circle of persons who can be recruited for military service and simplify the process of recruiting the army,” said Deputy Defense Minister Viktor Goremykin.

At the same time, as noted in ISW, the Russian authorities are also preparing for a possible negative reaction from society. The Russian Guard has proposed changes to regulatory documents that provide for the expansion of civil defense measures during mobilization, martial law, and wartime.

According to analysts, such steps may indicate the Kremlin’s fears about possible protests, as large-scale mobilization remains unpopular among Russians.

Experts also recalled that back in late 2025, Vladimir Putin signed a law that allowed reservists to be sent to combat zones without an official announcement of mobilization. This made it possible to conduct a covert conscription, but the current legislative changes, according to ISW, may indicate preparations for a full-scale mobilization campaign.

At the same time, analysts emphasize that the final decision to announce a new wave of mobilization will depend on Vladimir Putin personally, his assessment of the situation at the front and domestic political stability in Russia.

Recall that Russia is preparing to conduct a large-scale mobilization in the fall , within the framework of which it plans to call up more than 500 thousand people.

As reported, residents of Moscow and other regions in Russia are massively complaining about the inability to apply for international passports due to the lack of free slots for registration . Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, believes that this may indicate that the Kremlin is preparing for a new wave of mobilization.

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