Russia plans to rebuild colossal army to sustain war effort

Russia has no real interest in ending the war in Ukraine, now entering its fourth year, according to Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė.

The minister accused the Kremlin of “mocking” the United States and showing no willingness to engage in meaningful peace talks. Šakalienė also claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is aiming to mobilize 1.5 million students by the end of the year to bolster the army.

“In my opinion, they already mocked the American government — they are showing disrespect to any effort to reach an agreement,” she told Euronews.

Šakalienė added that Washington has not applied enough pressure on Moscow, especially when it comes to demanding concessions necessary for a ceasefire.

“On the other hand, why should they stop? They have truly transformed their economy into a wartime economy. They are moving very fast with their armed forces reform — aiming to have 1.5 million soldiers by the end of the year,” she added.

Although Russia and Ukraine agreed to a prisoner exchange on Monday during talks in Turkey, Moscow once again refused to consider a ceasefire.

(QG - Source: Euronews— Picture : © Unsplash)