Additional Coverage:
- Russian troops are crashing into their own anti-tank barriers and dying, pro-Putin hardliners say (newsbreak.com)
Russian military commanders have misplaced anti-tank barriers, causing accidents involving their own troops and civilians in the Kursk region of southern Russia.
Russian nationalist bloggers on Telegram have reported that dozens have died in crashes involving the “dragon’s teeth” barriers, which stand about 4 feet tall.
The bloggers blame poor communication between commanders, law enforcement, and engineering troops for the accidents.
According to Newsweek, some Telegram accounts suggest the barriers may have been placed by saboteurs to create chaos in Russia.
Business Insider cannot confirm who placed the barriers.
The incidents underscore the ongoing criticism of Russian commanders by military bloggers for what they see as inept decisions.
Despite the war’s high cost, economist Jay Zagorsky believes it may be the only thing keeping Russia’s economy afloat.