Three years into the war in Ukraine, soldiers like Viktor, initially motivated to defend their country, face significant disillusionment due to intense combat, unrealistic orders, and lack of adequate support. After suffering injuries and receiving inadequate care, Viktor and many others have deserted. The Ukrainian military is grappling with rising desertion rates, particularly in light of the ongoing demands of war and the absence of breaks. Recent investigations into missing troops and command failures highlight the severe shortage of soldiers and its implications for the war effort against Russia.
Gradually, however, he became disillusioned. The battle was furious. The Russians would smash our positions to the ground, he said.
I realized I'm nobody. Just a number, he said. Once a trained sniper, Viktor is one of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have abandoned their units.
The issue of desertion has made headlines in Ukraine. Last week the government launched an investigation into the 155th Mechanised Brigade.
After three years of war, Ukraine is desperately short of soldiers, especially infantry. This has made it easier for Russia's army to advance in the east.
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