Ukraine Investigates 1,700 AWOL Soldiers in French-Trained 155th 'Anne of Kyiv' Brigade

Jan 2, 2025, 09:10 PM

Ukraine has launched a criminal investigation into the 155th Mechanized Brigade, also known as 'Anne of Kyiv,' following reports of widespread desertions and mismanagement. The brigade, which was partially trained and equipped by France, saw approximately 1,700 of its soldiers go AWOL before the unit was deployed to the front line near Pokrovsk. The investigation focuses on allegations of abuse of power and desertion, with the Ukrainian State Bureau of Investigation confirming the probe. The brigade, intended to be an elite unit, faced significant organizational chaos during its formation, with 2,500 soldiers being reassigned to other units and a lack of essential equipment such as drones and electronic warfare tools. About 50 soldiers deserted during training in France. The French Defense Ministry had trained about 2,000 of the brigade's 5,800 soldiers, and equipped them with advanced weaponry including French AMX-10 armored vehicles and Caesar howitzers. The brigade's commander was dismissed shortly after deployment, amid claims of poor leadership and inadequate preparation.