Russia’s army ‘suffering from morale and disciplinary issues’ in Ukraine

A main grievance from troops is around pay, according to the Ministry of Defence
Sami Quadri5 September 2022

Russian forces are suffering from “morale and discipline issues” in addition to combat fatigue and high casualties, according to the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD).

A main grievance from troops continues to be around pay, including the high chance that “sizeable combat bonuses” were not being paid, the latest British intelligence update said.

At least some “outright corruption” among commanders is likely involved as well as an “inefficient military bureaucracy”, it added.

The latest MoD intelligence update reads: “In the Russian military, troops’ income consists of a modest core salary, augmented by a complex variety of bonuses and allowances.

“In Ukraine, there has highly likely been significant problems with sizable combat bonuses not being paid. This is probably due to inefficient military bureaucracy, the unusual legal status of ‘special military operation,’ and at least some outright corruption amongst commanders.

“The Russian military has consistently failed to provide basic entitlements to troops deployed in Ukraine, including appropriate uniform, arms and rations, as well as pay. This has almost certainly contributed to the continued fragile morale of much of the force.”

It comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Vladimir Putin of following in Adolf Hitler’s footsteps.

Comparing Russia’s invasion with World War Two, he told The Sunday Times: "From Belarus, they are using the same routes and directions as Nazi Germany."

Meanwhile Mr Zelensky joined children in the city of Irpin on the first day of term at a school rebuilt after attacks from Putin’s troops.

And while there thanked Britain for being Kyiv’s "dearest friend and closest ally" since Russia’s attacks began.

He urged Britain’s next prime minister - expected to be Liz Truss - to continue its steadfast support.

Boris Johnson is understood to be phoning Mr Zelensky tomorrow afternoon as one of his final acts from No10.

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