Soldiers Serving in Ukraine Seek Escape from Russian Army Service

A Growing Number of Russian Soldiers Are Deserting the Army Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine.

In recent months, reports have emerged of a significant number of Russian soldiers abandoning their posts and fleeing the country. According to various sources, including independent publications and human rights organizations, at least 50,000 Russian servicemen are believed to have deserted since 2022, with many more potentially unreported.

One individual, who wishes to remain anonymous for security reasons, shared his personal experience of being recruited into the army under false pretenses. The 24-year-old, who grew up in western Russia, was lured into serving at a nuclear power plant in southeastern Ukraine with promises of a secure job and a salary of $2,660. However, upon arrival, he discovered that he would be required to serve on the frontlines.

The individual, who has since deserted the army, reported being subjected to physical and emotional abuse by his superiors, including being beaten up and told to “stop squealing” about his medical condition. He also claimed to have been forced into a role as a drone pilot despite having schizophrenia, which would have barred him from handling weapons.

The group “Idite Lesom,” which translates to “go through the forest” or “get lost,” has reportedly assisted at least 3,000 deserters in leaving the army. The group’s spokesman, Ivan Chuvilyaev, described Russia’s mobilization effort as “keeps mutating,” with new recruits being recruited through false promises of safe civilian jobs.

The Kremlin has not released official data on the number of soldiers who have deserted or gone absent without leave. However, human rights organizations and independent publications have reported a significant increase in desertions since 2022.

Source: Al Jazeera