Four Russian soldiers have shared their accounts of the brutal conditions on the front lines in Ukraine, including witnessing executions of fellow soldiers who refused orders. The men, who are now on the run, spoke to the BBC about the horrors they experienced.
According to the soldiers, commanders would order the executions of those who refused to follow orders, with one soldier describing how he saw four men being shot at point-blank range. The soldiers also reported being tortured and subjected to inhumane conditions, including being starved and electrocuted.
The Russian government has stated that its armed forces operate with utmost restraint and treat their personnel with maximum care. However, the UK's Ministry of Defence estimates that over 1.2 million Russian troops have been killed or injured since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022.
Testimonies of the Soldiers
Ilya, one of the soldiers, described how he was mobilized alongside 78 other men and sent to the front line. He witnessed four people being shot by a commander and saw 20 bodies of fellow soldiers lying in a pit after being executed.
Dima, another soldier, reported seeing his commander shoot four men himself. He also described how he saw bodies of 20 men who had been shot dead by a commander and had their bank cards taken.
Meat Storm Missions
The soldiers described the dreaded meat storm missions, which involve sending waves of men to attack Ukrainian forces. The missions are likened to suicide missions, with the goal of wearing down the Ukrainian forces.
Every day in 2025, an estimated 900-1,500 Russians were killed or wounded in Ukraine, according to the UK Ministry of Defence. The soldiers reported that those who refused to participate in the meat storms often faced dire consequences, including torture and execution.
Response from the Russian Government
The Russian government has stated that information regarding alleged violations and crimes is duly investigated. However, the soldiers' testimonies suggest a breakdown of law and order on the Russian front line.
