[Treefence]

Putin was expected to start his speech a half hour ago, but it's been delayed.  I think the general theory is that various regions will hold sham referendums to announce they are joining Russia, which will allow Russia to mobilize conscripts into the region.  It's a somewhat half measure, but we will know more once it is official.  I think Russia wants to have their green conscript soldiers taking over occupation duty, and allow more professional soldiers to hold the front lines and try to advance.  I'm not sure if this has a major effect on the war, but who knows honestly.  I do think this is a direct result of the Kharkiv counter offensive, and also note that Kharkiv is not one of the regions that will hold a sham referendum.

[Treefence]

Putin was expected to start his speech a half hour ago, but it's been delayed.  I think the general theory is that various regions will hold sham referendums to announce they are joining Russia, which will allow Russia to mobilize conscripts into the region.  It's a somewhat half measure, but we will know more once it is official.  I think Russia wants to have their green conscript soldiers taking over occupation duty, and allow more professional soldiers to hold the front lines and try to advance.  I'm not sure if this has a major effect on the war, but who knows honestly.  I do think this is a direct result of the Kharkiv counter offensive, and also note that Kharkiv is not one of the regions that will hold a sham referendum.