British intelligence confirms. Special Storm-Z unit in Russia
The British Ministry of Defense has highlighted a serious problem of drug use among Russian soldiers involved in the conflict in Ukraine. According to an intelligence report, Putin's soldiers abusing drugs and alcohol are being transferred to the Storm-Z assault units as a form of "punishment".
1:56 PM EST, November 14, 2023
The report, which forms part of daily intelligence updates, references information provided by the independent Russian portal, Wiorstka. According to the portal's data, up to 15% of Russian soldiers stationed in Ukraine are using drugs, which include amphetamines and marijuana. Moreover, securing drugs, even at the front line, does not appear to pose a significant challenge for them.
Drugs on the Frontline Lead to "Crimes and Deaths"
The British Ministry of Defense considers these reports to be credible, as they align with other information received since the start of the invasion. Other sources also suggest a high rate of disciplinary incidents, alongside crimes and deaths associated with alcohol misuse within the Russian armed forces.
Transfer of Drug Addicts to Storm-Z Units
The report suggests that Russian commanders are likely resorting to punishing soldiers who indulge in drug and alcohol abuse by transferring them to the Storm-Z assault units. British experts believe that these units have essentially become penal units.
One main contributing factor to the poor discipline and substance abuse within the Russian forces is probably the ongoing lack of opportunities to rotate battle units away from the front lines, the report emphasized.
The Radio Svoboda portal reported on Thursday that contract soldiers and volunteers currently engaged in the conflict in Ukraine will not be permitted to return home until military operations have ceased. This was announced by Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
