European leaders fear that Putin is preparing for an escalation of the war in Ukraine and the expansion of hybrid attacks against NATO allies, writes The Telegraphthe
Western intelligence officials say Russia is making administrative preparations for a possible "covert mobilization" after the election, although they doubt a full public mobilization of 300,000 troops will take place.
Officials say Moscow is stepping up recruitment efforts, including targeting individuals with legal or financial problems, while European leaders warn that Russia's hybrid operations against Europe are intensifying.
