Russian Conscript Shot Dead Reportedly for Refusing to Fight in Ukraine

A 19-year-old Russian conscript from Tatarstan was reportedly shot dead by his superior at the Illinsky training range in Primorsky Krai. The incident, which occurred on October 21, followed the conscript’s alleged refusal to sign a military contract and deploy to the warzone near Ukraine’s border.

According to materials reviewed by Important Stories, the soldier, identified as Artem Antonov, was killed during a weapons training session. A lieutenant of the 394th Motorized Rifle Regiment reportedly removed the safety on his AK-12 rifle and fired a burst of shots into a line of conscripts. One of the bullets struck Antonov in the head, killing him instantly.

The training at the Illinsky range was part of preparations for the deployment of motorized rifle units to the Kursk region to support operations near the Ukrainian border.

Antonov’s relatives believe the shooting was linked to his refusal to sign a military contract. Family members report that he had shared accounts of mistreatment with close friends, including being beaten with metal rods, denied medical assistance, and subjected to excessive duties for days without rest.

These accounts were reportedly documented in a private social media group, which was deleted shortly after his death.

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Upon receiving Antonov’s body for burial, his family noted not only a gunshot wound but also multiple bruises across his body, suggesting prior physical abuse.

Despite these allegations, local officials reportedly described Antonov’s death in a necrology post as a soldier “choosing to give his life for his homeland.”

Reports of coercion among Russian conscripts have increased amid declining voluntary enlistment in the armed forces. Military leadership has allegedly resorted to psychological pressure, physical intimidation, and even contract falsifications to compel conscripts to join active-duty units.

Meanwhile, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, since the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, Ukrainian forces have inflicted significant losses on the enemy. These include approximately 751,910 Russian soldiers eliminated, alongside the destruction of 9,514 tanks, 19,535 armored vehicles, and 21,055 artillery systems.