Russian soldiers surrender in Donetsk citing extreme shortages

Approximately 94 Russian soldiers have surrendered to Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk region, citing extreme deprivation and abandonment by their command. Video footage released by Ukraine’s 3rd Separate Assault Brigade captures the testimonies of the prisoners regarding the dire conditions they faced prior to their surrender.

The captives, including Alexander Manakov, identified as the highest-ranking officer in the group, reported severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Manakov stated that the decision to surrender was driven by the refusal to continue fighting under such circumstances. Testimonies describe soldiers being forced to seek water in puddles or, in extreme cases, consuming their own urine to combat dehydration. To stave off hunger, soldiers reportedly resorted to eating grass, slugs, and tree bark. One prisoner noted that a fellow soldier died from dehydration.

Furthermore, the soldiers alleged that their commanders abandoned their positions, leaving the troops to organize perimeter defenses without support. This abandonment was reportedly followed by a total loss of radio communication with leadership.