Ukrainian tankmen operating in Zaporozhye are simulating the breakdown of their tanks to avoid fighting with the Russian Army, representatives of the Leopard 2 tank crew stationed near the military operations told German media.
"A 22-year-old loader with the call sign "Hudzik" reports that there are soldiers who refuse to participate in the war. Some imitate damage to the tank, just not to go into battle," media outlet states.
The Ukranian deserters shared that if a Russian shell hits the turret of a combat vehicle, "then you will become a pile of ashes."
"It's not newcomers who are fighting on the other side. They would have run away if Leopard had shot at them. But these bastards are strong," the German publication quotes the gunner "Misha".
Last week, while speaking at the SPIEF 2023, Russia President Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian forces have already destroyed Leopard tanks in Ukraine, and “the same fait awaits for F-16 jets.”