Putin expands army as Zelenskyy warns of North Korean troops in escalating Ukraine war

President Vladimir Putin has ordered a significant expansion of Russia's armed forces, with a decree signed on September 28, 2026, increasing the authorized personnel strength to over 2.4 million, including 1.55 million active-duty military personnel. This marks the fourth such increase this year and the seventh since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, coming amidst reports of heavy military losses and a stalled offensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Russia is undertaking additional mobilization efforts and deploying North Korean soldiers to bolster its ranks.

Simultaneously, Russian forces have intensified their daytime strikes across Ukraine, particularly targeting civilian infrastructure in Kyiv and other cities in late September 2026. Attacks on September 28, 2026, resulted in at least seven deaths and over 50 injuries, hitting residential buildings, offices, and the National Academy of Sciences in Kyiv. These strikes, which include the increased use of sophisticated jet-powered drones, are seen by some as an attempt to compel Ukraine's capitulation before the upcoming spring.

These escalating actions have heightened international concerns about a dangerous new phase in the conflict and the risk of regional spillover. The United Nations and other international bodies have noted a rise in civilian casualties and reported incidents involving Russian drones affecting the airspace of neighboring NATO countries. The UK has also highlighted Russia's expanded disruptive activities across Europe, suggesting an effort to test responses and weaken the collective resolve of Ukraine's partners, while Russia continues to reject calls for a ceasefire.