Compensation or Insult? The Reality for Russia's Wounded Veterans

The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine have once again brought to light the treatment of Russian war veterans, particularly those with disabilities. A poignant example is a photo that emerged online of a soldier from Buryatia who lost his sight and both hands during the war. What's raising eyebrows, however, is the authorities' so-called "compensation" for his injuries—a smart speaker.

As the war in Ukraine persists, the list of wounded and permanently disabled soldiers grows longer. Occasionally, the internet bears witness to local communities expressing gratitude toward their servicemen. Nonetheless, this gratitude often pales in comparison to the immense sacrifices made by these individuals.

The tale of the Buryatian soldier's plight is particularly harrowing. In what was described as a "special operation," he suffered injuries leading to the loss of his hands and sight, rendering him unable to live independently.

In a rather perplexing act of support, local "volunteers" presented him with a smart speaker as a form of compensation for the severe injuries he sustained. This was not a symbolic gesture but an actual attempt to offset his permanent disabilities.

This story of unconventional "support" for a disabled veteran has quickly captured the public’s attention, marking yet another instance of inadequate aid for wounded soldiers and the families of the deceased.

A recent example highlighted by Russian television showed the wives of fallen soldiers being given bags of vegetables as a form of condolence from a mayor.

In Chechnya, under the rule of Ramzan Kadyrov, a similar narrative unfolded where bereaved families received modest food packages as gestures of solidarity from the leader.

"This is not charity. It's Kadyrov's way of 'supporting' his troops. It's clear evidence of his regard and esteem for them," commented Ukrainian MP Olexiy Honcharenko on Telegram.

These actions reflect a broader disregard by Russian authorities for the well-being of their soldiers, often recruited from distant Asian regions with little knowledge of the Ukrainian conflict. The primary concern seems to be fielding personnel for the front lines, regardless of the human cost.