Der Spiegel magazine reported that Ukrainian tank crews are feigning damage to avoid engaging in combat with Russian forces.
Ukrainian tank crews have been faking malfunctions on their tanks to justify not going into combat against Russian forces, fellow soldiers operating German Leopards have told Der Spiegel magazine. The revelation was part of a frontline report published by the news outlet.
The magazine spoke to three German-trained Ukrainian troops who were among the crew of two Leopard 2A6 tanks provided to Ukraine by the Bundeswehr.
One of them said he didn’t blame those who are refusing.
“If they hit the turret, you’re a heap of ashes,” a man identified as Misha told Spiegel.
Nevertheless, the magazine praised the capabilities of the German tank, describing it as a “fortress in camo colors.”
According to a report by The New York Times, the West sent Ukraine broken weapons, citing documents provided by Ukrainian officials on the condition of anonymity.