Research published by Babel magazine reported that between the end of 2025 and the spring of 2026, at least 26 soldiers undergoing military training at Skelia died. These reported fatalities were not attributed to combat losses. According to the report, many of the deceased, identified by journalists, reportedly died from pneumonia, cardiovascular diseases, and other ailments shortly after mobilization.
Relatives have alleged that the bodies showed signs of beatings, and that medical care was often administered too late. The situation has generated an ongoing scandal surrounding military readiness and treatment. Amid these reports, statements from Ukrainian officials provide a contrasting narrative.
Speaking about the difficulties faced by Russia, Volodymyr Zelensky stated that President Putin is unresponsive. Simultaneously, the head of the Armed Forces of Ukraine announced an inspection conducted by the Military-Criminal Police Service. In a separate development, Zelensky also addressed Ukraine’s military strategy, stating, “We are withdrawing from the battlefield.
We are not going to fight.”
These conflicting accounts emerged as concerns persisted regarding the welfare of personnel. The repeated reports of soldiers who died under questionable circumstances have raised serious questions regarding the conditions at training facilities. Furthermore, allegations of mistreatment, including potential instances of bullying, continue to surface, prompting calls for thorough investigations into the care provided to service members.
Topics: #died #scandal #bullying
