Russia has 5 million reservists and is increasing its army by 9,000 soldiers every month, - Syrskyi
Russia is increasing its army, which is fighting against Ukraine, by 8-9 thousand soldiers every month, and the mobilization reserve is about 5 million people.
This was stated by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi in an interview with LB.ua, Censor.NET reports.
"Every month, Russia increases the number of its military by 8-9 thousand, which amounts to 120-130 thousand people per year. As of January 1, 2025, the Russian grouping of troops participating in the hostilities in Ukraine will number 603 thousand people, while today it is already 623 thousand," Syrskyi said.
According to him, the frontline in Ukraine is constantly expanding, in particular as a result of the fighting in the Kursk operation and in the Kharkiv sector, particularly in Vovchansk. The total length of the front has increased by 200 kilometers.
Syrskyi also emphasized that Russia is actively encouraging mobilization financially: "They are paid 20-40 thousand dollars for signing a contract alone, I don't take into account all other payments of financial support, and a soldier receives from 2,500 dollars." In his opinion, this approach allows Russia to actively involve new forces in the war.
"That is, they throw money at people, and this is the main incentive. We cannot afford it," he said.
As of today, the commander estimates that Russia's mobilization potential reaches 20 million people, of which about 5 million are trained reservists who have already served.
Against this threat, Syrskyi emphasized the need for a balanced mobilization in Ukraine and a review of the structure of the defense forces to effectively counter the aggressor.
