The Kremlin appears to be laying the groundwork for a possible new mobilization campaign while publicly insisting that Russia’s economy remains stable despite mounting fuel shortages and signs of economic decline.According to the latest assessment by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), recent legislative changes, alongside proposed expansions of Russia’s internal security powers, suggest Moscow is preparing not only to increase military recruitment but also to manage potential domestic unrest if a formal mobilization is announced.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official.Groundwork for mobilizationThe Washington-based think tank said that on July 22, Russia’s State Duma approved legislation allowing people with active criminal records – including those convicted of drug trafficking and organized crime – to sign contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defense during periods of formal mobilization.Deputy Defense Minister Viktor Goremykin said the measure would significantly expand the pool of eligible recruits and strengthen Russia’s military recruitment efforts for the war against Ukraine in 2026.Meanwhile, Russia’s National Guard (Rosgvardia) proposed amendments to broaden its civil defense powers, allowing it to protect society from unspecified “dangers” during mobilization, martial law, or wartime.ISW noted that President Vladimir Putin had already signed legislation in November 2025 allowing reservists to be deployed to combat zones without formally declaring mobilization.