20,000+ Russian Soldiers Prosecuted for Refusing to Fight in Ukraine
According to a report by Mediazona, over 20,000 Russian soldiers have faced prosecution for refusing to fight in Ukraine since September 2022, with the majority of cases involving going AWOL. These cases highlight a significant issue within the Russian military, with widespread reports of abuse and punishment tactics employed to maintain order. Despite these challenges, Russia continues to recruit a large number of soldiers monthly, often offering substantial financial incentives. Additionally, President Putin signed a decree to significantly increase the size of the Armed Forces, further indicating the scale of Russia’s ongoing war efforts.