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New Report Uncovers Russian Military Abuses in Ukraine

10/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Verstka, an independent Russian news outlet, reports abuses by the Russian military in Ukraine that the Kremlin denies.
The investigation describes soldiers shot for fleeing, brutal punishments such as gladiator-style fights, extortion schemes to avoid dangerous assignments, and a surge in mistreatment complaints.
Verstka identifies over 60 alleged perpetrators, mostly mid-ranking officers.

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Story summary

Verstka, an independent Russian news outlet, reports abuses by the Russian military in Ukraine that the Kremlin denies.
The investigation describes soldiers shot for fleeing, brutal punishments such as gladiator-style fights, extortion schemes to avoid dangerous assignments, and a surge in mistreatment complaints.
Verstka identifies over 60 alleged perpetrators, mostly mid-ranking officers.