Putin orders partial military mobilization and threatens West

The announcement comes at a time when the invasion of Ukraine, at its command, is in the seventh month.

A day earlier, regions occupied by Russia in eastern and southern Ukraine announced plans to hold referendums for joining Russia.

Analysts say such efforts, backed by the Kremlin, provide ground for Moscow to escalate war, following Ukraine's successes in the battlefield.

The referenda, which were expected to take place since the first months of the war, will begin on September 23rd in the Luhansk and Herson regions, as well as in the Donjeck Zaporija. The last two are partially checked by Russia.

During his speech, Putin said partial mobilization will begin today.

The “we are talking about partial mobilization, so only citizens currently in reserve will undergo recruiting, as well as those who have served in the armed forces and have relevant experience”, Putin said.

Putin said his goal is “crim” of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

He also accused the West of involvement in <x0).

“Those who allow themselves such statements about Russia, I want to remind you that our country also has different means of destruction”, Putin said.

When our country's territorial integrity is threatened... to protect Russia and our people, we will certainly use all the means at our disposal”.

“This is not a” fraud, Putin said.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said in a TV interview that only those with respective combat experience and service, not recruits and students, will be mobilized.