Putin Has Given Russians A New "signal" Of War Against Ukraine

• 24.02.2026, 9:05

Analysts explained the thinking behind the statements on Feb. 23.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin used the February 23 "Defender of the Fatherland" holiday to continue preparing the Russian population for possible mobilization. The Kremlin chief said that Russian occupiers bear a "huge responsibility for the Russian people and the common cause of Russia."

According to analysts, Putin is preparing for limited, phased conscriptions in the future to meet the need to build up the armed forces. This is reported by the Institute for the Study of War.

Russians are being prepared for mobilization

The Russian dictator's remarks are an attempt to set the stage for mitigating any domestic backlash that may result from future conscriptions of reservists. Putin's constant reference to "responsibility" in his February 23 speech is an attempt to set a narrative condition aimed at requiring Russian society to make additional sacrifices for his war effort, including by providing more manpower.

In addition, Putin's emphasis on responsibility in his speeches-not only the responsibility of Russian soldiers, but of all Russians-is likely an attempt to instill in the Russian people a sense of civic duty in order to mitigate possible negative reactions to the call-up of reservists. ISW analysts note that the Russian dictator is aware of the internal discontent that such appeals may cause, and is trying to garner more popular support in advance by normalizing the concept of sacrifice and responsibility before he launches such appeals.

Russian Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev also used his public appearance on February 23 to support a broader initiative to mobilize the Russian population. The Ukraineophobe met with the occupiers on Feb. 23 and, remarkably, was dressed in military uniform despite not being a serviceman.

Medvedev said Russia "needs victory, but the price of victory matters" and urged Russian soldiers to "take care of themselves and their loved ones." Kremlin officials have often said publicly that Russia is prepared to continue fighting to achieve its original military objectives in Ukraine. Medvedev's statement about the "price" of such a victory is a remarkable moment, as it represents an acknowledgment of the social costs.

According to ISW, such statements suggest that Russian military commanders do not foresee any significant changes in tactics that would significantly reduce casualty rates. Medvedev's February 23 speech is intended to instill in the entire Russian population an understanding of loss and sacrifice.