How Russia Is Using Disabled Soldiers For Frontline Assaults

Russia’s commanders, facing severe manpower shortages in Ukraine, are reportedly sending wounded and disabled soldiers back into frontline assaults, including men on crutches. Multiple accounts describe the tactic as using injured troops to draw Ukrainian drone fire and reveal defensive positions, after which more capable infantry is deployed. Mykola Melnyk, a former officer from the 47th Mechanized Brigade, said such soldiers can also serve as decoys or bait to distract drone operators. He added that commanders may not be held accountable for heavy losses. Analysts tie the practice to Russia’s escalating casualties—estimated at 1.4 million by CSIS over four and a half years.