War is not just fought on the battlefield. Behind the frontlines, the strain of conflict can take a heavy toll on soldiers.
In areas like Kherson, this reality appears to be hitting Russian troops hard, as reports of internal chaos begin to surface.
Disciplinary issues, low morale, and mental health crises are now emerging as significant challenges for Russia's forces in occupied territories, according to Digi24.
A commission from Russia’s Defense Ministry has reportedly been deployed to the 1196th Motorized Rifle Regiment in the occupied Kherson region, responding to alarming reports of sabotage and suicides within its ranks.
According to the Ukrainian partisan group Atesh, these incidents are weakening unit cohesion and undermining operational readiness.
In A Precarious Position
Atesh, which operates covertly in Russian-controlled areas, claims these issues have been exacerbated by acts of resistance targeting Russian logistics and infrastructure.
Such sabotage is said to include attacks on vessels and supply lines, further stressing troops already dealing with deteriorating conditions.
The group suggests that the morale crisis has become so severe that Russian commanders see it as a direct threat to their ability to mount offensive operations.
The occupied Kherson region remains a highly contested area in the ongoing war, with Ukrainian forces holding the western bank of the Dnipro River.
This strategic divide has left Russian troops in a precarious position, cut off from significant reinforcements and frequently targeted by Ukrainian partisans.
Low morale among Russian forces has been a recurring theme throughout the conflict. Reports of discontent, poor supplies, and high casualty rates have often surfaced.
Now, the added strain of internal crises—like rising suicides—suggests a deeper unraveling of discipline and readiness.
While the commission's findings have not been publicly disclosed, the situation in Kherson underscores the human cost of prolonged warfare.
