Kyiv: Russian soldiers have reportedly been seen donning civilian clothing in the occupied parts of Ukraine’s Kursk region, sparking concerns amid ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in southwestern Russia.
Alleged Breach of International Law
On Monday, the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Readovka released video footage allegedly depicting Russian soldiers disguised as civilians in the Kursk region. If verified, this would be a violation of international humanitarian law, which mandates that armed combatants wear identifiable insignia to distinguish themselves from civilians.
A serviceman familiar with the region’s security forces told Novaya Europe that the footage likely shows members of volunteer groups, many of whom work for local private security firms. Additionally, Novaya Europe reported sightings of Russian military units, including the Pyatnashka Brigade, also dressed in civilian clothes.
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The Pyatnashka Brigade
The Pyatnashka Brigade, a private military company contracted by the Russian Defense Ministry, has been active in Ukraine since 2014. The group includes special operations forces, some of whom were previously deployed in Abkhazia, a contested region in Georgia. This tactic of blending in with civilians raises concerns about the safety of local residents.
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Risks to Civilians
Another source with ties to Russian intelligence suggested that reconnaissance and assault troops might see tactical advantages in dressing as civilians. However, this approach escalates risks for local populations, who could be mistaken for Russian soldiers by the AFU.
On Monday, the Russian Investigative Committee announced it was investigating alleged attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in the Kursk region, which they attribute to the AFU. The committee cited Readovka footage from August 8, showing what they claim to be Ukrainian forces targeting civilians in the town of Sudzha.
The use of civilian disguises by military personnel not only complicates the situation but also endangers non-combatants, as the distinction between soldiers and civilians becomes increasingly blurred.
