Title: Widespread Drug Use Among Russian Soldiers in Trenches of Ukraine’s War
Date: [Current Date]
In a shocking revelation, reports have emerged of widespread drug use among Russian soldiers stationed in the trenches of Ukraine’s ongoing war. According to independent Russian site Verstka, one in ten Russian soldiers uses drugs, including the synthetic drug “salt” (alpha-PVP), amphetamines, mephedrone, and marijuana. The drugs are believed to be delivered directly to the frontlines, exacerbating the already dire situation in the conflict-ridden region.
The Russian offensive to capture the town of Avdijivka, just north of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, has resulted in heavy losses for the Russian forces, as reported by several media outlets. Soldiers in the trenches have reportedly turned to drugs out of boredom and as a means to cope with the constant waiting and anxiety that comes with being in a war zone.
“Everyone knows if you do drugs in the trenches, of course, they are small trenches. No one cares, the main thing is not to disturb anyone else. And not to leave the trench,” stated one Russian soldier. The addictive nature of “salt” is said to create a disregard for personal safety, leading to an increased risk of aggression, self-harming behavior, paranoia, and hallucinations.
These revelations raise concerns regarding the mental state and the ethical conduct of the soldiers involved. David Bergman, a major at the Defense University in Stockholm, warns that drugs among combat soldiers can worsen their mental well-being and potentially make them more aggressive. Bergman stresses the importance of identifying and addressing these issues to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
The delivery of drugs to the frontlines further exacerbates the situation, as it provides an outlet for the soldiers to indulge in substance abuse. Additionally, the high cost of drugs, with three doses of “salt” costing approximately SEK 1,700 (equivalent to around $200), suggests that the soldiers’ addiction is having a significant financial impact.
Notably, drug abuse among Swedish soldiers has been rare, with Lars-Erik Gyllestad, department director at the HR department of the Armed Forces, stating that they have not identified any major drug-related problems among their troops. He emphasizes that Swedish soldiers are volunteers and motivated to carry out their international assignments.
Historically, the use of drugs in war has had devastating consequences, such as during the Opium Wars in China in the 19th century and the widespread addiction to opium pills among American soldiers during the Civil War. The case of Russian soldiers in Ukraine adds another chapter to this dark history.
As the war in Ukraine continues to take a toll on human lives, it is crucial to address the issue of drug use among soldiers. The immediate concern lies in providing support and resources to help these individuals overcome their addiction and mitigate the potential consequences of their drug-induced behavior in a war zone.