Russian Troops Face Unexpected Problem In Ukraine

• 13.08.2024, 14:13

It's undermining more than just morale.

The Russian military have faced a shortage of drinking water on the frontline in Ukraine, says an intelligence summary of the UK Ministry of Defence. This situation developed due to damage to utility infrastructure caused by Russian bombing and rocket attacks. The problem is also exacerbated by hot weather.

A pro-Russian military blogger reported that water rations for pilots have been limited to one litre a day, which corresponds to a quarter of the minimum requirement recommended when operating in high temperatures. As a result, pilots have to turn to local residents for water.

Also, according to British intelligence, some Russian military units are forced to make improvised filtration facilities using stale puddles to meet daily water needs, risking a rise in the incidence of disease among soldiers.

"Lack of water, which leads to dehydration and increased risk of infections, almost certainly affects the morale and operational effectiveness" of the Russian army, the agency emphasised.