We will know when this is a real war in the eyes of Russia. They will destroy the bridges (including rail bridges) cutting off a third of Ukraine. I always wondered why they didn't do this years ago, now I know why.
View: https://x.com/RealPepeEscobar/status/1931635664996434427
The SMO might be upgrades to a CTO (Counter Terrorist Operation)
https://news-pravda.com/usa/2025/06/05/1397430.html I very much doubt they would implement most of these.
A brief summary of CTO legal implications:
• FSB officers become part of the command structure of the military operation and participate in military planning and decision making at the highest levels.
• A new central operational command is created, staffed by officers from the FSB alongside those of the Ministry of Defence and Interior ministry.
• Conscripted soldiers may be utilised in combat operations (not just mobilized reservists).
• Security services may requisition property of citizens such as personal vehicles, warehouses etc for CTO use.
• Strict powers of control over the exchange of information.
• Communication means may be disconnected by security services without notice.
• Unimpeded access to any CTO employee into any premises in Russia without the need for legal warrant.
• Restrictions on freedom of movement.
• Employees of FSB, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Emergency Situations and others, become part of the CTO.
• Expanded powers to security forces in who may be designated a hostile combatant. This opens the door to targeted destruction of non-military individuals.
The last point is very important, because it creates the legal framework under which Ukrainian government officials may be deliberately targeted and destroyed, including but not limited to Zelensky himself.
