The Daily Scenes from a Russian Draft Office
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Dec 15, 2022 
Valerie Hopkins, an international correspondent for The New York Times, shares gripping insights from the frontlines of the Russian draft amid the Ukraine conflict. She reveals how mass emigrations have drained Moscow of men and explores the emotional toll on families facing sudden conscription. Through personal stories, including that of a man confronting his draft notice, Hopkins underscores the chaotic reality and deep emotional struggles induced by war. The podcast captures the complex sentiments of Russians, highlighting deep divides in attitudes toward the draft and the conflict.
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The Draft's Impact
- After Russia's losses mounted in Ukraine, Putin announced a draft, leading to hundreds of thousands of men fleeing.
- Many others stayed, facing potential mobilization.
Moscow After Mobilization
- Moscow felt different after mobilization, with fewer men in public spaces like restaurants, bars, gyms, and barbershops.
- Many men were either drafted, had fled, or were hiding to avoid conscription.
Videos of Chaos and Lack of Supplies
- Videos on Telegram showed the chaotic conscription process and the lack of supplies for mobilized men.
- This caused fear and concern among Russian men and their families.