Reports from the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre (USCC) reveal that Russia has started forming frontline units made up of soldiers suffering from dangerous infectious diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis B and C. These troops are being sent into combat around Pokrovsk, one of the most fiercely contested cities in eastern Ukraine.
According to the USCC, these units belong to the 1435th and 1437th motorised rifle regiments, which are part of Russia’s 27th and 15th brigades. The infected soldiers are reportedly marked with special armbands to distinguish them from other Russian troops, although their equipment and provisions remain equally poor.
Dmytro Zhmailo, USCC’s executive director, explained that the only difference between these units and regular forces is the visible markings of infection. The move reflects Moscow’s growing desperation to capture strategic ground, particularly Pokrovsk, which is vital for Ukraine’s ability to supply its defenses in cities such as Chasiv Yar and Kostiantynivka.
This isn’t the first time Russia has turned to such measures. The Wagner mercenary group was already recruiting prisoners with HIV and hepatitis back in 2022. Analysts say HIV infection rates among Russian troops have since skyrocketed, with some studies estimating they were 20 times higher by the end of 2023 compared to the start of the war.
Former British Army colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon described the deployment as a sign of Putin’s determination at any cost: “There’s nothing off-limits – Putin is determined to keep fighting this way.”
If Russia were to capture Pokrovsk, Ukraine would face severe logistical challenges, potentially weakening its ability to defend other eastern strongholds.
Comments
Post a Comment