Next Year in Moscow 10: A farewell to arms

In Russia's war of attrition, the critical issue is manpower: the ability to mobilise more troops – and to keep them fighting. Much is kept hidden about the state of Russian forces. But Russia seems to need more soldiers. Sign-on bonuses have quadrupled since the start of the war. Ilya Andreyev has had three lives since the war in Ukraine broke out. First, as a journalist within Russia’s propaganda machine; then, as cannon fodder on the frontlines; and now, as a deserter, living in exile. For this one-off bonus edition of Next Year in Moscow, Arkady Ostrovsky has spent many hours talking to him. It’s a story that can help us to understand the forces drawing people into Russia’s army - and the limits of Vladimir Putin’s power over them. Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+ For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.