Russia prepares half‑million troop mobilization as Ukraine downs Russian rockets

Ukrainian officials say Moscow is readying a massive mobilization that could call up up to 500,000 reservists this autumn, marking one of the largest conscription waves since the invasion began in February 2022. The plan, which has not been confirmed by Russian authorities, is viewed as a response to heavy personnel losses and a means to sustain offensive operations on the frontlines, particularly in the east.

In a separate development, Ukrainian forces shot down a Russian S‑8000/Band‑erol missile over the Odesa region using a decades‑old Bofors L/70 anti‑aircraft gun supplied by Lithuania and the Netherlands. The successful interception was reported by Ukraine’s 121st Territorial Defence Brigade and highlighted the continued effectiveness of older weapon systems in the conflict.