Moscow: An entire regiment of over 1,000 soldiers from Russia’s 20th Guards Motor Rifle Division, based in Volgograd, reportedly deserted during the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, according to an investigative report by Russian media outlet Vazhnyie Istorii published on November 19.
The report reveals that journalists acquired a deserters’ list from an unnamed source. Compiled no later than April 2024, the document was reportedly sent by the division’s command to regional authorities across Russia, seeking assistance in locating the missing personnel.
Regiment Details Highlight Widespread Desertion
The deserters’ list includes 1,010 individuals—equivalent to an entire regiment. Among them are 858 contract soldiers, 150 mobilized troops, two conscripts, 26 junior officers, a major, and two lieutenant colonels. The document’s authenticity was confirmed by cross-referencing it with a 2022 personnel registry for the division.
According to Vazhnyie Istorii, the Russian Armed Forces have not disclosed the overall number of deserters. However, the investigation underscores “the significant scale of desertion during the war,” reflecting deep-seated issues within the Russian military.
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Returnees Face Mixed Outcomes
The report notes that many deserters voluntarily returned to their units, though some engaged in criminal activities while on the run. A mobilized soldier from the 20th division revealed that deserters who return often evade punishment. Speaking to Vazhnyie Istorii, he shared his own plans to return, citing concerns over being placed on a wanted list. “Someone has to be there—there aren’t enough people,” he stated.
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Incentives Amidst Challenges
In an effort to bolster its forces, the Russian State Duma recently passed legislation canceling up to 10 million rubles (approximately $100,000) in credit debt for those who enlist to fight in the war against Ukraine.
