Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly escalating the war in Ukraine, preparing to deploy hundreds of thousands more soldiers to the front lines. According to sources close to the Kremlin, cited by The Economist, Putin believes failing to secure the entirety of the Donbas region could endanger his life. He reportedly told confidants, “They will hang me,” revealing his fear of repercussions should the war effort falter. This suggests a heightened level of desperation and a commitment to achieving maximal territorial gains. The move signals a further intensification of the conflict and casts doubt on prospects for a near-term resolution. This escalating commitment highlights Putin’s perceived personal stake in the outcome of the war.