Part 5/10:
One specific example illustrating the impact of desertions is drawn from the 72nd Brigade, which was stationed in the contested area of Vuhledar. After years of intense combat, the Brigade found itself greatly depleted. With only one line battalion and two rifle battalions remaining, military leaders were compelled to reallocate personnel from these units to maintain defenses elsewhere. Abysmal morale has contributed to an exponentially growing rate of desertion, as soldiers internalize the fear and dangers posed by their current conditions.