Reports from credible news agencies or official Ukrainian military statements

Over 1,700 Soldiers Desert Ukrainian 155th Brigade 'Anna Kyiv' Before Combat Deployment Near Pokrovsk, Costing €900 Million

Jan 1, 2025, 01:34 PM

The Ukrainian 155th Brigade, known as 'Anna Kyiv,' has reportedly seen over 1,700 soldiers go AWOL before their combat deployment near Pokrovsk. This incident has raised concerns regarding the leadership of Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrski, as the brigade was equipped with Western weaponry and trained in France. The formation and training of the brigade cost approximately €900 million. Reports indicate that more than 50 soldiers deserted while training in France. The situation has drawn comparisons to similar issues faced by Russian forces, with over 19,210 cases of AWOL reported in Russia's Southern Military District. The controversy surrounding the brigade's performance has been highlighted by journalist Yuriy Butusov, who detailed the organizational failures leading to these desertions.