Putin orders boost in Russian troop numbers even as Ukraine war rages on

• Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to increase the size of Russia’s armed forces to 2.04 million, even as the war in Ukraine enters its seventh month. Associated Press reported that the Russian president’s order comes as the country has suffered heavy losses during its occupation in Ukraine. The order will come into effect on 1 January 2023 and includes a 137,000 rise in the number of combat personnel. It is significant increase in army personnel as the war drags on. Announcing the decision, Kremlin did not explain the motive behind the increase or where the new recruits would come from. As per reports, Putin's latest move signals that Russia is in no mood to retreat from Ukraine any time soon.