Kathrine Frich
Soldiers are trained to face danger and accept the risks of war. The expectation is that the threat comes from the enemy, not from within their own ranks.
But new claims emerging from the battlefield suggest that, in some cases, the greatest danger may come from the very commanders meant to lead them.
Chilling recording
Ukraine’s military intelligence agency said it intercepted a conversation in which a Russian commander orders the execution of one of his own servicemen, Ukrinform reported.
The recording, released by the Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate, allegedly captures a soldier being accused of treason without any formal investigation.
In the audio, a commander can be heard issuing a direct order: “Shurik, I’m telling you, eliminate the man. If you let him go, you’ll most likely get hit right away and your position will be destroyed. The man is no longer working with us.”
Pressure to comply
The intercepted exchange suggests hesitation among troops asked to carry out the order.
In response, the commander reportedly escalates his tone, demanding immediate action.
“Didn’t you understand the order? Do you want to screw up so many positions and the guys next to you because of one d’Artagnan?” he shouts in the recording.
Ukrainian authorities say the incident reflects a broader pattern of internal violence within Russian ranks, particularly against those suspected of disobedience or betrayal.
Such claims could not be independently verified, and Moscow has not publicly responded to the specific allegations.
Sources: Ukrinform, Ukrainian Defense Ministry
