Main content

Russia's military mobilisation: One sister's despair

It is over two weeks since President Putin announced what he called "partial mobilisation" in Russia, calling up army reservists and drafting more men to fight the war in Ukraine.

The announcement triggered large protests while many young men fled. In response to public anger, the Kremlin later admitted mistakes in its mobilisation drive but has continued the policy.

Valya, not her real name to protect her, told Outside Source what had happened to her own family and the despair she feels about her brother going to war:

"He will be a simple soldier with bad ammunition, no good sleep, no good food. They've been given bad equipment. I am afraid my brother will simply die."

(Photo: Friends and family of Russian reservists react at a gathering point. Credit: Reuters)

Release date:

Duration:

7 minutes