Russian soldiers tell BBC they saw fellow troops executed on commanders' orders
4 hours ago
- #Russia-Ukraine war
- #Military brutality
- #War crimes
- Four Russian soldiers report witnessing executions of fellow troops by commanders for refusing orders.
- Soldiers describe 'meat storms'—suicidal assaults where waves of troops are sent to wear down Ukrainian forces.
- One soldier recounts seeing 20 bodies in a pit after being 'zeroed' (executed by their own side).
- Conditions include torture, electrocution, and starvation for those refusing to participate in assaults.
- A soldier shares his experience of being urinated on and tied to a tree as punishment.
- Executions and brutal punishments are used to intimidate and control soldiers.
- Families of deceased soldiers have denounced commanders, accusing them of brutality and impunity.
- The Russian government denies allegations, stating they investigate all reports of violations.
- Soldiers report a breakdown of law and order, with commanders having unchecked power over troops.
- Many soldiers express hatred for the war, their commanders, and the Russian system under Putin.