That’s an interesting idea. I agree that a backlash is the natural result of a much broader swath of Russians suddenly having a stake in the war. Going along with propaganda is easy until your own or a relatives life is on the line. But the disorderly process is more likely a mix of individual avoidance and the usual offical incompetence and corruption than any deliberate obstruction to get at Putin.
IMO, Putin’s main purpose for this call-up is to signal that no end is in sight, to induce the EU and USA to stop subsidizing Ukraine, and force negotiations. Europe is headed for a cold, expensive winter, and an economic depression that will spread to the US. The US is tiring of pouring billions into Ukraine, and the fall elections will further reduce support for Biden’s proxy war. Gamblers are dangerous (Putin and Biden).
In your opinion: “Putin’s main purpose for this call-up is to signal that no end is in sight, to induce the EU and USA to stop subsidizing Ukraine, and force negotiations.”
I rhink Putin’a current moves are a response to the butt spanking he got from Xi at their recent meeting. The putdown from India didn’t feel good either. So now Putin has retreated to his luxury spa to sooth his butt and his feelings, launched a grenade and is waiting for the pieces to settle, before he is off to see Belaruse and stir up dung there. Tune in for further adventures of a failing dictator.