What Putin’s partial mobilisation of reservists means

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the partial mobilisation of the country’s military reservists.

The move marks a significant escalation in the conflict with Ukraine.

Foreign affairs analyst Dr David Wright-Neville says while all Russian men aged between 18 and 27 are required to do a year of mandatory military service, not all will be called up.

“To try and avoid the backlash at home he’s announced a partial mobilisation,” Dr Wright-Neville said.

“Only those who have had some more substantial experience in the military … will be eligible.”

There are currently an estimated 200,000 Russian troops on the front, and another 300,000 will be called up under Putin’s partial mobilisation.

Press PLAY below to hear Dr Wright-Neville’s assessment of the mobilisation

Image: Kremlin Press Office / Handout/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images