Page 31 - RusRPTFeb23

German government source, causing uncertainty at a time when Germany is weighing sending battle tanks to Ukraine. Lambrecht was against sending more weapons to Ukraine.
Scholz complains about 'pressure' to supply tanks to Ukraine, says he won't rush with decisions. Since the beginning of Russia's all-out invasion in February 2022, Scholz has been criticized for delaying and blocking arms supplies to Ukraine. Amid pressure from the media, the public and NATO allies, Germany has increased its arms supplies to Ukraine but Scholz is still accused of being reluctant to antagonize Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
Germany says it didn’t receive Leopard tanks request from Poland, Finland. Polish President Andrzej Duda announced the delivery of a company of modern German-made Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine on January 11. Since the tanks are produced in Germany, the approval of the German government is required for their export.
France to deliver light wheeled tanks to Ukraine within 2 months. The defence ministers of Ukraine and France have discussed the organisation of rapid training for Ukrainians to operate the light thanks.
Ukraine intelligence: Russia tries to build 2-million strong army. mobilisation set-ups, including legislative amendments and the preparation of educational centers, are already underway in Russia, according to Ukraine’s intelligence.
Ukrainian intelligence: Russia planning to mobilize half a million conscripts in January. Vadym Skibitsky, Ukraine’s deputy military intelligence chief, said the Ukrainian military believes the conscripts will be sent to the front lines in the east and south of the country and would be part of renewed Russian offensives in the spring and summer, the Guardian reported.
Russia reportedly hiring mercenaries in the Balkans. The Balkans are the main source of mercenary fighters for Russia, according to the National Resistance Center, an organisation operated by Ukraine's Special Forces.
31 RUSSIA Country Report February 2023 www.intellinews.com