An increasing number of Russian soldiers are deserting the army amid ongoing intense battles, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of Ukraine.
Recent advancements by Russian forces, including gains in Avdiivka, have been overshadowed by reports of rising desertions within their ranks, according to the Russian activist group "Idite lesom," as reported by SVT.
Escalating Desertions
The rate of desertions in January has seen a tenfold increase compared to the same month last year. Specifically, 284 soldiers deserted in January alone, a significant rise from the 28 reported in the previous year.
Neither Russian authorities nor Ukraine have commented on these figures.
"The Simplest Way"
The group "Idite lesom," which aids Russians in evading military service, expressed a desire to see even more soldiers joining the desertion movement.
"Today, we live in a world where the Russian army only brings death and destruction. Deserting is the simplest way to help one's country," the group stated, highlighting the moral dilemma faced by soldiers.
Navalny's Burial and Arrests
The funeral of Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny took place at the Borisovsky cemetery in Moscow, marked by the arrest of around a hundred individuals who expressed their respect for the deceased in various ways.
Arrests were made across several cities including Moscow, Novosibirsk, Omsk, St. Petersburg, and Kazan, as reported by CNN.
A Daughter's Tribute
During the funeral, Navalny's daughter, Dasha Navalnaya, paid tribute to her father through social media. "You taught me to live by my principles from childhood. To live a life of dignity. You gave your life for me, for my mom, for Zakhar (Navalny's son), for Russia, and I promise you that I will live my life as you taught me, to make you proud, and most importantly, with the same bright smile on my lips," she expressed.
Navalny's death has garnered significant global attention, with many analysts pointing to irregularities in the Russian state apparatus regarding explanations for his death.
