Vladimir Putin 'preparing for war with NATO' as rumours of huge recruitment driveThe number of new recruits to the Russian military has increased by almost 8,000 every weekView Image Russian President Vladimir Putin (Image: Getty Images)Russia shows no interest in bringing the Ukraine conflict to a close and appears to be gearing up for potential confrontation with NATO, according to recent claims. ‌Military analysts worry that Vladimir Putin is assembling a strategic reserve of fresh military personnel as he readies for "direct conflict" with the Western alliance. ‌The Institute for the Study of War indicates that new recruitment figures are climbing by approximately 8,000 weekly on average. We are vigilant, we are resolute, and if we need to confront planes that are operating in NATO airspace without permission, we will do so." NATO confirmed that they intercepted the aircraft, stating: "Earlier today, Russian jets violated Estonian airspace.