Russia signals possible escalation in Ukraine war as Kremlin rhetoric intensifies

Russian intelligence assessments indicate that President Vladimir Putin may seek to deepen the conflict in Ukraine, citing Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian refineries as a trigger for a broader escalation. Analysts note the Kremlin’s mention of potential attacks on NATO facilities in the Baltic states and Romania, and a possible shift from the “special military operation” terminology to a “real war" narrative.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskow’s recent statements, described by experts as a clear signal, accuse European states of pushing the war and suggest a harsher domestic stance, including the prospect of forced mobilisation of men of military age after the 2026 presidential election. Observers warn that this rhetoric could be aimed at justifying further military actions and influencing Western support for Ukraine.