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Putin denies draft but Russians wary
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Putin denies a new draft, calling rumors nonsense. Russians wary, some flee abroad.
Background
Rumors of a second wave of military mobilization have spread across Russia as the war in Ukraine stalls in its fifth year. The Kremlin denies preparing a new draft, but some military-age men are taking precautions, such as booking flights out of the country. Putin's approval ratings have fallen, and experts suggest this may be a warning about public frustration with the war.
How it unfolded
- Sep 2, 2026Putin dismisses mobilization rumors as 'complete nonsense' and an 'information attack on Russia'.
- Sep 4, 2026Reports indicate Putin's approval ratings fell from 71% to 66% in July, the steepest drop since 2022.
- Sep 5, 2026NYT reports Russians are on edge, with some like entrepreneur Eradzh planning to leave the country.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Putin calls the draft rumors 'complete nonsense' and an 'information attack on Russia'.
- Public
- Some Russians, like entrepreneur Eradzh, believe a draft is likely and are making plans to leave.
- Analysts
- Experts say sinking approval ratings signal public frustration and may caution Putin against a new draft.
Still unverified
The exact likelihood of a new draft remains speculative; Putin's denial is not independently verified.