Russian troops injured in Ukraine, expecting state-provided rehabilitation, are facing a grim reality. Vadim Sharipov, a 48-year-old veteran who lost his left arm, was promised a prosthetic arm by the Defense Ministry.
However, after months of waiting, he received nothing more than a metal rod with a plastic tip, a far cry from the sophisticated prosthetic he was anticipating.
According to Radio Free Europe, Sharipov's frustration is palpable as he describes the substitute as "just a metal stick with a plastic tip," highlighting the stark contrast between the promised aid and what was delivered.
Vadim Sharipov with his 'prosthetic arm'
His disappointment is compounded by the fear of muscle atrophy, which could render any future prosthetic useless. Sharipov's plight is not an isolated incident, as the number of disabled men under 30 in Russia has significantly increased, with a record number expected in 2023.
While some members of the Wagner Group, a notorious private military company, received imported prosthetics earlier in the war, others, including injured Wagner fighters, feel abandoned.
One such fighter, despite receiving a pardon for his service, laments the lack of support from the state, including unpaid pensions and job opportunities.
This situation reflects a broader issue within Russia's treatment of its injured soldiers. Promises of the "best" prosthetics made on state-run television have fallen short, leaving many veterans feeling betrayed and disillusioned.
The Kremlin's inability to fulfill its commitments not only impacts these individuals' physical rehabilitation but also raises questions about the state's respect and gratitude towards those who have served.
