Russia Calls Veterans to Reinforce Air Defense Amid Drone Attacks

• •Leningrad region seeks veterans to strengthen air defense units amid drone threats.
• •Recent drone strikes have reduced Russia's oil export capacity by 40%.
• •Total Russian military casualties have surpassed 1.2 million since February 2022.

In a significant recruitment effort, Russian authorities in the Leningrad region are appealing to veterans and former Soviet soldiers to join new air defense units. This move follows a series of Ukrainian drone strikes that have severely impacted key oil export terminals, leading to a reported 40% reduction in Russia's oil export capacity. Governor Alexander Drozdenko announced plans to establish 54 new mobile fire groups by June 1 to enhance aerial defense capabilities. Since the beginning of the year, Russian air defense systems have intercepted 243 drones in the region. The recruitment drive aims to address personnel shortages as Russia continues to face significant military challenges, with total casualties exceeding 1.2 million since the conflict began in February 2022. The call for veterans highlights the urgency of bolstering defenses amid ongoing hostilities with Ukraine and accusations against neighboring countries for facilitating drone attacks. The situation reflects a broader struggle within the Russian military to maintain effective operational capacity.