Putin's war is no longer just on the battlefield in Ukraine. His bet to mobilize 300,000 reservists is also shaking part of Russian society. We have seen assaults on police stations and recruitment centers, and how part of the population is leaving the country, in an exodus that is increasing.
The recent "fake" referendum in the territories controlled by Russia adds another ingredient of tension. The exit of the country of Russians who do not want to enter into combat towards bordering countries does not stop. Thousands of them have sought escape in countries like Georgia, Finland, Mongolia or Kazakhstan.
And now Russia is preparing the annexation of the occupied territories after the "false" referendums. This will allow Putin to justify that he is defending Russian territory and be able to use an even firmer response.
And all of this without forgetting the battlefield. The recent victory of the Ukrainian army in its counteroffensive in Kharkiv has exposed the shortcomings of the Russian army. But above all, it has shown the great military potential of Ukraine, supported by intelligence and weapons from the United States.
Winter is coming and that can be a problem for both sides. The contest could be put on hold. Something that does not favor either Ukraine or Russia. A forced hibernation that could further prolong the war.
