Kyiv: In a prison basement in northeastern Ukraine, a group of young Russian soldiers is being held as prisoners of war. These recruits, captured during recent clashes between Russia and Ukraine, are not seasoned veterans but conscripts who were unexpectedly thrust into combat following Ukrainian incursions into Russia’s Kursk region.
Unprepared for Combat
Many of these captives are serving their mandatory one-year military service and were not expected to face combat, according to Ziare. Their capture presents a significant challenge for the Kremlin and tests Ukraine’s capacity to manage a large number of Russian POWs, who could play a crucial role in future negotiations.
Despite President Vladimir Putin’s assurances that recruits would not be sent into combat, some found themselves fighting in Ukraine. Most recruits were stationed along Russia’s western border with the expectation of avoiding direct conflict.
Also Read | X Closes Operations in Brazil Due to Judge’s Content Orders
Voices of Discontent
One captured soldier, Nikolai, 22, voiced his frustration: “We didn’t want to fight in any way.” He recounted promises made to recruits that they would not be involved in hostilities.
Ukrainian officials permitted a select group of journalists, including Washington Post reporters, to visit the prison. The captives reported receiving good treatment and medical care, though some had sustained injuries before capture.
The families of the captured soldiers have petitioned President Putin, accusing Chechen forces of abandoning these young recruits, some of whom had not completed their basic training.
