Russian Commanders Threaten Execution of Soldiers Refusing to Fight in Kupiansk

Russian commanders in the Kupiansk region are reportedly coercing soldiers to return to positions they previously abandoned under heavy Ukrainian fire, threatening execution for those who refuse, Ukraine’s Khortytsia group of forces reported on February 4.

Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian troops repelled multiple Russian attacks near Petropavlivka, Nova Kruhliakivka, and Zahryzove, inflicting significant losses, according to the report.

Heavy Ukrainian fire forced Russian units to abandon frontline positions near one of the settlements.

Faced with retreating forces, Russian commanders are reportedly using threats of execution to force soldiers back into battle, according to Ukrainian intelligence.

Earlier, reports emerged that the number of Russian soldiers from the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment who are either killed or go missing was steadily rising.

This increase in casualties and disappearances is linked to unofficial weekend trips taken by the soldiers to Tokmak and Melitopol. The soldiers reportedly leave their designated posts during these trips.