Additional Coverage:
- The Kremlin’s medical system is likely overloaded as Russian soldiers on crutches keep appearing at the front line: UK intel (newsbreak.com)
Local reports indicate injured Russian soldiers are being sent back to the front lines in Ukraine, often still on crutches. The UK Ministry of Defense suggests this is a sign of an overwhelmed Russian medical system.
Several videos circulating online appear to show Russian soldiers with crutches and casts in combat zones. The UK Ministry of Defense believes these soldiers are returning to duty with unhealed wounds, possibly at the direction of commanders struggling to maintain troop numbers.
Ukraine estimates hundreds of thousands of Russian soldiers have been wounded, with a significant portion requiring extensive medical care. The UK assessment suggests injured soldiers are discharged prematurely from frontline medical facilities to ease the burden on the system.
The practice has drawn criticism even within Russia, with some military bloggers calling it a “disgrace.” One blogger speculated that wounded soldiers seen without weapons or equipment may have been expected to scavenge for supplies. A recent video showing a man assaulting injured Russian soldiers has further fueled outrage about the treatment of wounded troops.
Russia’s struggle to maintain troop levels is evident in increased recruitment bonuses and benefits. The Kremlin is dedicating a substantial portion of its budget to defense spending as the war continues.