Skibitsky said that polling stations have already been created in the occupied territories of Ukraine, and the Russians are working on forming electoral lists.

Russia is preparing the international community for a "protection of the Russian-speaking population" scenario in southern Ukraine.

This was announced at a briefing by the representative of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Vadym Skibitsky.

He said that polling stations have already been created in the occupied territories of Ukraine, and the Russians are working on forming electoral lists.

"Recent statements by Lavrov (Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov - ed.) indicate that Russia is preparing the international community for a scenario of" assistance to the Russian-speaking population "in southern Ukraine. In this way, they are trying to legitimize the occupation of the territories of our country," he said. .

According to Skibitsky, the Russian army has problems with forming units and battalion tactical groups. There are not enough drivers and mechanics. They form mixed BTGs, including service members from different military units.

"In addition, Russia uses two main instruments of covert mobilization. The first is the so-called battalion army reserve of the country. Another approach is the creation of so-called patriotic battalions on a national basis in all regions of the Russian Federation. Russia also uses volunteers and mercenaries from Syria," he said.

Also, in his opinion, the latest legislative acts of the Russian Federation indicate that the country's economy has been put on a military footing. Most defense enterprises have been switched to round-the-clock operations, indicating that they have losses that need replenishment.

Recall that Russia's war against Ukraine in closed Russian circles is called the "war of old farts." After all, most supporters of aggression are people over 60 years old. At the same time, most of the youth in Russia oppose the war, realizing that they will be affected by the first wave of mobilization if such an announcement is made.