Russia's military is facing a crisis in the Kupiansk direction as troops have resorted to extreme measures to escape the brutal frontlines. Reports indicate that soldiers have shot their commanders, seized vehicles, and fled the battlefield in a desperate attempt to avoid the ongoing slaughter. The Kharkiv region has been a challenging area for Putin's forces, with Ukrainian defensive lines holding strong and inflicting heavy casualties on Russian assault units. The Pischane funnel, in particular, has seen intense fighting, with Ukraine's military using drones and artillery to counter Russian advances.

Despite the high casualties, Russian commanders continue to push their soldiers forward in what has been described as a systematic assault resembling mass execution. Some soldiers have rebelled against their officers, leading to violent acts of mutiny where commanders and subordinates have been killed. The deserters have abandoned their comrades and fled to safety, sparking a manhunt by Russia's military police.

On the Lyman front, Ukrainian forces report that Russian troops are surrendering in large numbers due to shortages of ammunition and food. Soldiers from the 63rd Mechanised Brigade have revealed that Russian units have been left to fend for themselves, leading to desperation among the troops. Many prisoners have shared harrowing stories of survival, including days spent chewing bitter grass in hopes of finding water.

Amidst the chaos, reports have emerged of Russian soldiers torturing their own comrades as punishment for desertion. Instances of soldiers being tied up and confined in dog kennels have been documented, highlighting the breakdown of discipline within Russia's military ranks.