UK Ministry Of Defence wrote:Due to low morale and reluctance to fight, Russian forces have probably started deploying “barrier troops” or “blocking units”.
These units threaten to shoot their own retreating soldiers in order to compel offensives and have been used in previous conflicts by Russian forces.
Recently, Russian generals likely wanted their commanders to use weapons against deserters, including possibly authorising shooting to kill such defaulters after a warning had been given. Generals also likely wanted to maintain defensive positions to the death.
The tactic of shooting deserters likely attests to the low quality, low morale and indiscipline of Russian forces.
Anyone not surprised that this is now happening, raise a hand..