Putin calls up reservists to counter Ukrainian drone strikes

Russia has passed sweeping laws to try to bolster its defences against an increase in Ukrainian drone attacks and sabotage operations.

- Pjotr Sauer

Almost four years into Vladimir Putin's war - a full-scale invasion he expected to last only weeks - his country is being targeted by almost daily strikes on energy facilities.

Ukrainian operatives have also assassinated high-profile military figures deep inside Russia.

The operations have forced Moscow to confront vulnerabilities in areas far from the battlefield.

To shore up the protection of critical infrastructure, the Russian president this month quietly signed a decree authorising the deployment of reservists to guard key sites.

These include refineries that have been hit repeatedly, contributing to a rise in domestic fuel prices. The decree passed by parliament lets the Kremlin call up a pool of about 2 million people without a fresh mobilisation a step that proved deeply unpopular when used before.

The reservists, who have annual military training, receive a modest monthly payment for remaining available. So far, they have been spared from fighting in Ukraine unless they volunteered.