Christian Freuding warns Russian military has reached 1.5 million soldiers

German Army Inspector Lieutenant General Christian Freuding has warned that Russian military forces have reached a target size of 1.5 million soldiers. Speaking on the Bundeswehr podcast ‘Generaldebatte’, Freuding noted that President Vladimir Putin appears to be ordering incremental increases to the armed forces on a near-monthly basis.

Beyond personnel growth, Freuding highlighted Russia's rapid technological adaptation, specifically regarding drone systems. He noted that Russia has increased its deployment rates for drones and is scaling up the production of missiles and jet-powered ‘Geran’ drones. He described the Russian military as being quantitatively and qualitatively superior, technologically adaptive, and combat-tested.

Freuding also pointed to an increase in hybrid warfare activities, citing incidents involving drones and disruptions affecting various regions, including the Baltics, Italy, Bulgaria, and Romania, as well as a failed drone attack at Leipzig Airport.