New footage has emerged that appears to depict two Russian soldiers being beaten after allegedly refusing to participate in assault missions and threatening to complain about their treatment to a superior. The video, which has not yet been independently verified, shows the soldiers stripped to their underwear with their hands tied above their heads as an officer strikes them with a stick.
According to Ukrainian military commentator Yuriy Butusov, the soldiers "flatly refused to participate in suicidal assaults and to die for Putin's agenda." In the video, the officer can be heard questioning the soldiers about their intent to file a complaint against a commander named Moskayev, and referencing their refusal to advance on the front lines.
This incident is presented as an example of harsh disciplinary tactics allegedly employed by Russian commanders. Reports and videos have surfaced previously alleging brutal methods used to enforce discipline on the front lines, where significant casualties have been reported.
In a separate development mentioned in the context of these alleged abuses, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Russian logistical assets. Over the past ten days, Ukrainian forces have reportedly used sea drones to strike numerous Russian fuel tankers in the Sea of Azov. The strikes have targeted 17 oil tankers and two gas tankers, among a total of 19 vessels attacked. These actions have reportedly caused substantial damage to Russia's ability to supply occupied Crimea.
Earlier this week, Ukraine also reported destroying an FSB security service patrol ship in the Black Sea. In response to these naval strikes, Russian forces conducted missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian port facilities in Odesa and Chornomorsk, targeting fuel storage and drone production sites. Russia's defense ministry stated that four naval vessels carrying cargo for the Ukrainian Armed Forces were also hit in these retaliatory strikes. The attacks on port facilities reportedly resulted in civilian casualties.