NEW DELHI: Russian President Vladimir Putin has initiated the country’s spring conscription campaign, mandating the draft of 150,000 citizens for statutory military service, as detailed in a document on the Kremlin’s website. This annual conscription obligates all Russian men to undergo a year of military service starting at age 18, a practice that has historically been met with significant resistance.Recent legislative changes have extended the maximum draft age to 30, intensifying concerns amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, a Reuters report said.
Escalation in Ukraine: Strikes and power outages
Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its military actions in Ukraine, with a recent cruise missile strike in Lviv and an air attack in Kharkiv resulting in two civilian casualties. Additionally, a significant portion of Ukraine’s Odesa region experienced power blackouts after an attack on an energy facility. These strikes are part of a broader pattern of targeting Ukrainian infrastructure, exacerbating the humanitarian situation amid the conflict.
Zelenskyy’s Easter message of resilience
In the face of these challenges, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered an Easter message emphasizing resilience and hope. Amidst the backdrop of religious observances and the grim anniversary of Bucha’s liberation, Zelenskyy’s words resonate with a nation under siege yet steadfast in its defense and spirit.
Cross-border tensions and civilian impact
The conflict’s repercussions extend beyond Ukraine, with recent attacks impacting the Russian region of Belgorod. The use of Czech-made Vampire rockets and subsequent shelling has led to civilian injuries and fatalities, highlighting the conflict’s broadening scope and the civilian toll on both sides of the border.