Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has reached a new stage, with Vladimir Putin ordering a partial mobilisation of 300,000 reservists.

After an apparent retreat from the north eastern Kharkiv region in recent weeks, the Russian President signalled a significant escalation in fighting.

“Today our armed forces are operating across a frontline that exceeds 1,000 km, opposing not only neo-Nazi formations but the entire military machine of the collective West,” he said in a televised address to the nation.

“In such a situation, I consider it necessary to make the following decision, which is fully appropriate to threats we face.

“Namely, in order to protect our motherland, its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to ensure the safety of our people and people in the liberated territories, I consider it necessary to support the proposal of the defence ministry and the General Staff to conduct a partial mobilisation in the Russian federation.”

He also issued a warning to the West during his speech, adding: “If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we use all available means to protect our people – this is not a bluff.”

Also Read| Putin announces partial mobilisation of 300,000 troops

What is partial mobilisation?

For Russians, Putin’s term “partial mobilisation” refers to the call-up of reservists for the armed forces.

During his speech, he stated that he had signed a decree ordering the immediate mobilisation of anyone who had served as a professional soldier rather than a conscript in Russia.

“We’re talking about partial mobilisation,” Putin said.

“That is, only citizens currently serving in the reserves, and especially those who have served in the armed forces, have military skills and relevant experience. Only they will be subject to conscription.”

Also Read| US President Joe Biden’s UN speech will target Russia, White House says

Separately, Russia’s defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, predicted that 300,000 people would be called up.

He also assured students that they would not be drawn into the conflict and that they should “be calm” and “continue to attend class.”

Conscripts, who are compelled to join the armed forces, will also not be deployed to the frontlines, which would have been highly unpopular in Russia.

Also Read| Elon Musk’s Twitter deposition: What to expect

In another sign that Russia is preparing for a protracted and possibly escalated conflict, the Kremlin-controlled lower house of parliament voted Tuesday (20 September) to toughen laws prohibiting Russian troops from deserting, surrendering, or looting. Legislators also voted to impose 10-year prison sentences for soldiers who refuse to fight.

If the legislation is approved by the upper house and then signed by Putin, it will strengthen commanders’ hands in the face of reported low morale among soldiers.