The president’s betrayal of his conscript army is creating a generation ready to sow chaos in Russia.
In recent days, videos of Russian conscripts surrendering to Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region have been widely circulated on Western social media platforms. Kyiv claims to have already captured hundreds of conscripts defending the border, as its army advances deep into Russian territory. This marks a significant development in the war against Ukraine, as for the first time in this conflict—and since the Chechen wars two decades ago—large numbers of Russian conscripts are facing battle.
The initial reports suggest that these young men, under-equipped and undertrained, are largely unwilling to fight in the face of a more experienced opposition. This may seem like a tactical setback, but the larger consequences could be far more serious for Vladimir Putin’s Russia. These conscripts, exposed to the brutal realities of front-line warfare for the first time, are likely to develop deep resentment toward their government.
This resentment may turn into something far more dangerous: a generation of disillusioned and vengeful citizens, feeling abandoned by their leadership. The conscripts, many of whom were sent to the frontlines with little preparation and little regard for their safety, are experiencing firsthand the consequences of the betrayal they feel from those in power. This could lead to long-term instability within Russia, as this new generation, scarred by war and disillusionment, becomes a potential source of internal chaos.
The growing number of surrendered conscripts could signify not just a tactical failure but the creation of a new class of Russian citizens who feel alienated and betrayed. These individuals, once loyal to the state, may become its most bitter opponents, further undermining the internal unity of Russia.
As this discontent grows, Putin’s regime will face significant challenges. The loyalty of those who have been sent to die in an unjust war is faltering, and the Kremlin will need to address the brewing unrest. However, the growing sense of betrayal among conscripts might be a problem that the Russian president cannot easily resolve.