Russia prepares forces for possible war
According to analysts, Moscow rebuilds its military districts on the western direction, indicating a shift to long-term preparations for a conflict with NATO.
In particular, New army corps were created and the Leningrad and Moscow military districts were restored.
«Russia has entered the first phase of planning for a possible war with NATO - this does not mean that an attack will take place in the near future, but the process of military preparation has already begun,» the ISW report says.
Signs of preparation
ISW analysts point to a number of specific actions by the Kremlin:
deployment of new military bases on the border with Finland;
increase in the number of military exercises in the western regions of russia;
increased reconnaissance and drone attacks near the borders of NATO countries.
Such steps, according to experts, should psychological and strategic effect, The aim is to put pressure on the West.
Kremlin's goal is to intimidate NATO
ISW believes that the Kremlin's current actions are aimed at demonstration of readiness for a large-scale confrontation, to to deter allies from further support for Ukraine.
«Putin is seeking to create the illusion that war with NATO is inevitable - part of an information campaign to weaken the resolve of Western countries,» analysts say.
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