The Ongoing Struggle of Ukraine's Frontline Troops

Ukrainian infantrymen Bohdan and Ivan have spent nearly two months on the frontline east of Pokrovske, enduring the harsh realities of war. Their deployment involved hiding in a village shop and later in a cramped basement, where they faced the constant threat of Russian drones. Supplies were airlifted in, and their living conditions were dire, with limited access to basic necessities. The situation reflects a broader trend in the ongoing conflict, where ground troops often operate under the shadow of aerial threats, despite the war being characterized by drone warfare.

The Guardian

As Bohdan and Ivan returned from their deployment, they encountered a new Russian-U.S. peace proposal that demanded Ukraine surrender all of Donetsk province and abandon aspirations of NATO membership. This proposal was met with strong objections from Ukraine, which views such demands as tantamount to capitulation. The soldiers expressed a collective sentiment of defiance, emphasizing that they do not want their sacrifices to be in vain. Andriy, a sergeant in their unit, dismissed the idea of ceding land for peace as "bullshit," highlighting the frustration felt among troops regarding the ongoing negotiations.

The Guardian

The psychological toll of prolonged deployments is evident, with reports indicating that 3% to 5% of returning soldiers require further psychological evaluation. The Ukrainian military is facing significant challenges, including a record number of absences without leave, which totaled 21,602 in October. Long deployments have become the norm, with some soldiers, like Serhiy Tyshchenko, serving for over a year in combat positions. Communication with families is limited, further exacerbating the emotional strain on troops who are cut off from their loved ones.

The Guardian

The nature of combat has evolved, with Russian tactics shifting from armored assaults to probing Ukrainian positions for weaknesses. This change has led to territorial losses, such as the six miles lost near Huliaipole in Zaporizhzhia province. Soldiers have adapted by using thermal hoods to evade detection, but the threat remains constant. Bohdan recounted a harrowing experience during their return journey, where they had to navigate dangerous terrain while avoiding drone strikes, underscoring the persistent risks faced by infantry.

The Guardian

As Bohdan reflects on the possibility of returning to the frontline, he articulates a grim reality: “What choice do we have?” He believes that Ukraine should not accept a poor peace deal after enduring significant sacrifices. His statement encapsulates the determination of many soldiers who feel compelled to continue fighting despite the toll it takes on their lives. The sentiment is echoed throughout the unit, as they prepare for the likelihood of another deployment, driven by a sense of duty and the hope of a better outcome.

The Guardian

• “I can’t sleep properly now,” — Bohdan, Ukrainian Infantryman

The Guardian

• “It’s fucking bullshit.” — Andriy, Sergeant, Ukrainian Army

The Guardian

• “What choice do we have?” — Bohdan, Ukrainian Infantryman

The Guardian

• “We have a saying in Ukraine: if you let a cat under the table, it will appear on the table. It’s the same with Putin.” — Bohdan, Ukrainian Infantryman

The Guardian