Russian thug and war criminal Vladimir Putin has declared martial law in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia illegally annexed a few weeks ago, showing new desperation as his forces are pushed back on the battlefield, particularly in the region around Kherson. There was also the indication in Putin's decree that martial law measures could be introduced inside Russia. From the Associated Press:
"Putin didn’t immediately spell out the steps that would be taken under martial law, but said his order was effective starting Thursday. His decree gives law enforcement agencies three days to submit specific proposals and orders the creation of territorial defense forces in the four annexed regions. [snip]
The upper house of Russia’s parliament was set to quickly seal Putin’s decision to impose martial law in the annexed Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia regions. Draft legislation indicates it may involve restrictions on travel and public gatherings, tighter censorship and broader authority for law enforcement agencies.
Putin also didn’t provide details of the extra powers the heads of Russian regions will have under his decree.
In a signal his moves could have broad restrictions for people living in Russia, his decree states that the types of measures envisaged by martial law could be introduced in Russia. (our emphasis)
That Putin is acknowledging that the anti-war sentiment in Russia may require some martial law measures is stunning. Hundreds of thousands of men have fled Russia to avoid Putin's mobilization, and his army's new recruits are receiving minimal training and equipment, and facing low morale as they are thrust to the front lines in Ukraine. The recent killing of Russian conscripts by fellow conscripts at a training facility points to the volatile nature of Putin's mobilization.
As the war situation deteriorates for Russia, they've been resorting to brutal and illegal attacks on the civilian population in Ukraine, in addition to water and electricity systems.
BONUS: What a deal-ski! Extra turnips if they're killed!
There are some real perks to sending your conscript son/husband off to possible death in Ukraine
— Francis Scarr (@francis_scarr) October 17, 2022
The mayor of Yakutsk says the families of men mobilised in the city are entitled to a free bag of vegetables! pic.twitter.com/3AMci7WH1P
