By KYIV. Oct 25 (Interfax-Ukraine) – The existence of the special unit Shtorm-Z underlines that the Russian Federation is experiencing enormous difficulties in creating combat infantry that is capable of conducting effective offensive operations, according to a report by the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
“Russia largely continues to rely on specially designated Shtorm-Z units for local offensive operations in Ukraine. These company-sized groups were likely first fielded in 2022. There is a realistic possibility that Russia originally envisioned them as relatively elite organizations which could seize the tactical initiative,” says a message published on the social network X (Twitter) on Tuesday.
However, intelligence believes that since the spring of 2023, Storm-Z has actually turned into penal battalions, which are staffed by convicts and soldiers of the regular occupying forces who are under disciplinary sanctions.
“Multiple accounts suggest the units age given the lowest priority for logistical and medical support, while repeatedly being ordered to attack,” the message reads.
