Ukraine Investigates Desertion in 155th Brigade

Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation has initiated a probe into the 155th Mechanized Brigade, known as 'Anne of Kyiv', following reports of abuse of authority and widespread desertion among its ranks. Despite being trained and equipped by France, with about 2,000 of its 5,800 soldiers receiving training, the brigade faced significant issues, including a reported 1,700 desertions before reaching the front lines near Pokrovsk. Investigative journalist Yuriy Butusov criticized the Ukrainian military leadership for organizational chaos and inadequate training, claiming that many soldiers were forcibly recruited and lacked sufficient experience. The brigade's command structure has also faced turmoil, with its commander being replaced shortly before deployment. As desertion rates reportedly exceeded casualty numbers, the investigation continues to assess the severity of the situation and accountability among military leaders. President Zelensky has acknowledged a troubling increase in unauthorized departures from military units across Ukraine.