Ukraine’s military intelligence has warned that Russia is dramatically expanding its war manpower, setting a recruitment target of over 409,000 soldiers for 2026 after already exceeding its 2025 mobilisation goals. Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov says Moscow is relying heavily on cash incentives, foreign fighters and contract soldiers to avoid another unpopular mass draft. Despite massive battlefield losses, Russia’s recruitment drive signals preparations for a prolonged war, raising fears in Kyiv and Western capitals that the conflict is far from nearing an end.