‘Don’t expect good news’ Putin humiliated as Russian media turn on mobilisation
Vladimir Putin has ordered 300,000 additional reserve troops to report for military training in order to boost invading forces on the frontline in Ukraine. The decision has already sparked huge public backlash within Russia, as families, in fear of being torn apart by mandatory military call-ups, have headed for escape via accessible land borders. While Kremlin-controlled media has remained fiercely supportive of the special military operation, acting to provide a shield of misinformation on the Russian military performance, the mobilisation has marked a notable shift in the presenters’ attitude. Formerly unwilling to acknowledge any sign of Russian weakness in the conflict, the state media pundits have now warned citizens not to expect positive developments in the war over the coming weeks, despite the flood of mobilised reserve soldiers.
Speaking on state-controlled network Russia One, television host Vladimir Solovyov said: “In real life, I’d really like us to attack and take Kyiv tomorrow but I am aware that, for those 300,000 who are undergoing partial mobilisation, time is required for that.
“Time is required for their training, for their combat coordination, and for them to have everything they need for entering battle.
“This means that for a certain period of time, things won’t be easy for us.
“Right now, we shouldn’t be expecting good news. We need to possess ‘long will’ and strategic patience.”
His declaration comes just days after Solovyov bashed the “idiot” Kremlin generals in charge of the partial mobilisation logistics.
Again, speaking on Russia One, Solovyov said: “Every idiot in those positions, who decided to call up a musician, or a person who has a million illnesses, or to approach a student despite the special decree explaining exemptions – such a person should not simply be punished, he should be the first to be sent to the frontlines.”
His fiery speech came after reports emerged of individuals unfit or otherwise exempt from the military call-up received papers demanding they report for service.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has asserted the 300,000 men will be drawn from a select pool of well-trained men with prior military experience.
