The myth that Russians don't surrender has shattered - and most hope to reach Ukrainian captivity

The Ukrainian army recorded significant achievements this week on the eastern front as part of the counteroffensive 'Operation Vivaldi'. According to reports, three villages were liberated and control was restored over two more. About 250 Russian soldiers were taken prisoner and 2,000 more were casualties. The myth that 'Russians don't surrender' has shattered, and entire units are surrendering in hopes of prisoner exchanges.

The Ukrainian army recorded significant achievements this week on the eastern front as part of the counteroffensive known as 'Operation Vivaldi'. According to an extensive report by the New York Post, Ukrainian forces liberated three villages and regained full control over two more. The move led to the capture of about 250 Russian soldiers and severe casualties to 2,000 more. Ukrainian forces recaptured an area of about 52 square kilometers. The operation included innovative use of old Soviet BTR-60 armored personnel carriers, converted into unmanned explosive vehicles to breach Russian defense lines. The article also reports on Russia's recruitment of foreign mercenaries, including Americans, using desperate measures. The mercenaries report physical and racist abuse, being sent on suicide missions ('meat assaults'), and extortion. According to Biletsky, the myth that 'Russians don't surrender' has shattered into pieces, and entire units, including officers, are surrendering fully in hopes of prisoner exchanges.