Mobilized Soldiers Expose Dire Conditions and Neglect in Deployment to Luhansk

source: www.wsj.com

Mobilized soldiers from Crimea and Stavropol have come forward to voice their grievances about being deployed to “militias” near Bakhmut without essential documents, proper weaponry, and salaries. The distressing claims have gained momentum as twenty-five soldiers demand a transfer to the “real army” and adamantly refuse to partake in assaults.

According to concerned relatives, approximately 80 mobilized soldiers from Crimea and the Stavropol region were dispatched to the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR) in mid-May, where they were integrated into local “militias” rather than being incorporated into the Russian Armed Forces as anticipated. Tragically, these soldiers needed to be more adequately equipped, solely provided with rifles, and left without crucial clothing and sustenance. Adding to their ordeal, they were not introduced to their commanding officer due to purported “restricted information,” and their military identification cards were confiscated. This disturbing situation raises questions about the intentions behind their deployment, leading some to speculate that they were sent to face danger without purpose.

Despite assurances that these soldiers would not be placed on the front lines, they were deployed to Bakhmut at the end of May. Once there, they were subjected to relentless artillery and tank shelling, exposing them to grave risks. Desperation compelled fighters from the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC) and the Airborne Troops to share their food and water provisions. Yet, tragically, three soldiers lost their lives during this difficult time.
In a heart-wrenching account, one soldier bravely revealed the absence of support they encountered, stating, “There is no support, absolutely none. They don’t give or feed us clothes; no commander is with us. We shouldn’t be with them because we are from the Russian Ministry of Defense. We were near Bakhmut until June 1, constantly under shelling: artillery, tanks, mortars, rockets, everything was flying towards us day and night. For the first three days, we hardly ate or drank anything; there was almost no water. There were no commanders from the militias with us.” These firsthand experiences shed light on the deplorable conditions endured by these soldiers while serving in the “militia.”

In June, twenty-five soldiers courageously refused to return to assault positions and recorded a video appeal to bring attention to their predicament. Unfortunately, their plight took a distressing turn when they were relocated more profoundly into the region, allegedly to conceal evidence of their mistreatment. Meanwhile, the soldiers’ relatives lodged complaints with the Ministry of Defense, desperately seeking resolution and accountability. Notably, the wives and mothers of mobilized soldiers embarked on a journey to Novocherkassk in search of answers from the army leadership, only to find their concerns dismissed. The continued lack of action by the military department exacerbates the growing crisis.

Families of the mobilized individuals from the Stavropol region and Adygea have taken it upon themselves to stand vigilant at the army headquarters in the Rostov region for three days, drawing attention to the precarious fate of their loved ones. Their persistent presence serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for intervention and justice.
These soldiers were enrolled in the Luhansk People’s Republic (LNR) militias and deployed to the front lines without adequate training, necessary documents, or appropriate remuneration. Disturbed by these revelations, women from the affected families journeyed to Novocherkassk to seek clarification from the army leadership.

The wives and mothers of the mobilized soldiers shared that their husbands and sons were sent to the front lines from the 54690 training ground in Budennovsk without proper training and “combat readiness.” This blatant disregard for their preparation and safety raises severe concerns about the decision-making processes surrounding their deployment.
On the front lines, these soldiers serve as “LNR militias” rather than regular Russian Armed Forces military personnel.

They lack official documentation or entries in their military identification cards, undermining their legal standing and rights. The irony is stark as their accounts reveal that, according to the data in their records, they are listed as discharged from service, preventing them from receiving the financial compensation they deserve.
In an unsettling turn of events, the “LNR militia” command has resorted to threatening the soldiers with a chilling consequence known as “resetting” to neutralize their presence. Tragically, this harrowing situation has already resulted in casualties, injuries, and instances of desertion. Despite their anguish and desperation, the soldiers’ relatives have found little solace in the response of the authorities and the prosecutor’s office, who merely register their complaints without taking meaningful action. This systemic negligence only exacerbates the suffering these soldiers and their families endured.

It is worth noting that previous attempts by military personnel to address their grievances against the leadership of the “militias” were met with dismissal and indifference. This lack of accountability and transparency within the military hierarchy raises urgent questions about the welfare and treatment of soldiers deployed in conflict zones.
As these distressing accounts come to light, it becomes increasingly crucial for responsible authorities to investigate and address the allegations of mobilized soldiers and their families. Urgent action must be taken to rectify the appalling conditions, ensure proper training and support, and guarantee the well-being of those who courageously serve their country.

The plight of these mobilized soldiers serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in the name of duty and honor. Their voices deserve to be heard, and it is the military establishment’s and relevant authorities’ collective responsibility to provide them with the justice, support, and respect they rightfully deserve.

We will continue to monitor the developments of this concerning situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. The plight of these soldiers and their families must not be forgotten, and their demands for accountability and justice must be addressed promptly and comprehensively.