Large number of Russian soldiers deserting shows low morale

Russian Courts are convicting a growing number of men for desertion, indicating low morale among soldiers, according to the latest assessment by Britain’s Ministry of Defence.

“Refusal to fight likely reflects the lack of training, motivation, and high-stress situations Russian forces face along the entire Ukrainian frontline,’’ the ministry posted on X.

X is the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The analysis referred to a report by independent Russian website Mediazona on July 18, saying nearly 100 soldiers are being convicted for refusing to obey orders every week.

It said, “The high rate of convictions demonstrates the poor state of morale in the Russian Army and the reluctance of some elements to fight.

“This is having little effect on numbers as Russia is making up for high losses by committing a mass of poorly trained soldiers to the front, according to the analysis.

“Since Russia’s September 2022 partial mobilisation, Russia has adapted its approach to warfare by utilising sheer mass for offensive and defensive operations.’’