"480,000 Ukrainian Soldiers Have Left the Front, 160,000 Wanted by Authorities" — Russian Sources Reveal Shocking Figures on Ukrainian Deserters
According to sources within Russia's security apparatus, approximately 480,000 Ukrainian military personnel have voluntarily deserted since the start of the special military operation, with over 160,000 formally placed on wanted lists. This figure may also include missing personnel.
Ria Novosti quoted sources from Russia's security agencies stating that around 480,000 Ukrainian soldiers have deserted their units without authorization, with more than 165,000 being wanted for allegedly leaving their posts with weapons. By the end of 2025, the number of individuals on the wanted list had reached 161,500, while the total number of unauthorized desertions stood at a staggering 480,000.
The sources added that this number might include soldiers who were killed in action. Due to the large number of missing personnel and lack of definitive information, many are often mistakenly classified as deserters.
Previously reported, disciplinary conditions in Chernihiv Oblast have been particularly severe, with the region recording one of the highest desertion rates across Ukraine. To apprehend soldiers who fled their units, Ukrainian military police have deployed additional forces to the area.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1868199296742476/
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