“Better for a Donkey to Be Killed Than for Two Soldiers”: Russian General Defends Using Animals for Frontline Supply Transport

Challenges in delivering ammunition and supplies to Russian frontline positions have led to the use of donkeys as transport, a practice that Russian Lieutenant General Viktor Sobolev, a member of the Russian State Duma , described as normal.

Speaking with Russian media outlet Gazeta.Ru, on February 6, Sobolev explained that logistical difficulties have necessitated unconventional solutions.

"Right now, there are significant challenges in supplying units and subunits, including assault detachments and groups, with ammunition, military-technical equipment, and even food. If any methods are used for delivery, including donkeys, horses, and so on, then that’s normal,” Sobolev stated.

According to Sobolev, while the use of pack animals is not widespread, it remains a viable option where necessary. “Dogs were also used in that war, they carried two mines on their backs and ran to where those mines were needed. It’s better for a donkey to be killed than for two people transporting essential supplies by vehicle to be lost.”

This comes after images circulated in Russian media on February 5, showing a donkey positioned at a Russian frontline site, reportedly being used for supply transport due to a shortage of military vehicles.

A widely shared message from a Russian soldier describes his reaction to being issued a donkey instead of standard transport.

“Just accept it as a fact. Don’t ask where, why, or how. I don’t know. But the fact is, they issued us a donkey,” he wrote.

The soldier further explained that the animal had been assigned to a support unit, citing difficulties with transport due to the destruction of military trucks.

“We have issues with transport, our trucks are being destroyed. So now we have a donkey to carry ammunition. A real, living donkey. Not humanitarian aid—our logistics truck went to pick up supplies and came back with a donkey,” he reportedly stated.