Ukrainian Soldiers Reflect on Chaotic Retreat from Russia

In a candid account, Ukrainian soldiers describe their overwhelming retreat from Sudzha in Russia's Kursk region as chaotic and poorly organized. Despite the turmoil, some troops find a sense of achievement in forcing Russian units to redirect. Concerns linger about the sustainability of international support as peace talks unfold.

Ukrainian soldiers have shared harrowing insights into their recent withdrawal from the Russian town of Sudzha, detailing the chaotic circumstances surrounding their escape from the Kursk region. Artem Kariakin, a soldier who actively crossed the border until last week, recounted their final mission, which was fraught with danger as they navigated past numerous burned-out military vehicles and faced Russian drone threats.

"We were lucky," Artem remarked, recalling how an incoming drone failed to detonate with enough force to disable their truck. The chaos of the retreat was evident, with Artem admitting that the decision to withdraw came too late and communication among units was severely hampered, particularly because the Starlink satellite systems they depended upon were inoperable within Russian territory.

Despite the disarray, Artem viewed the offensive into Kursk as a partial success, compelling Russian forces to reallocate resources from the eastern front. He suggested that while Ukrainian troops managed to escape, many were forced to do so on foot, emphasizing his mixed feelings toward U.S. engagement in peace talks involving Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, viewing the talks as more surreal than substantive.

For Artem, who hails from the now-occupied Luhansk region, the thought of territorial concessions was disheartening. He asserted, "I never thought Putin would be willing to trade any part of Russia for our lands," but recognized that maintaining pressure on their border was crucial.

Meanwhile, Serhiy, another soldier born in Russia, shared insights from his own tactical missions, particularly nighttime operations designed to recover damaged armored vehicles while avoiding detection. He noted that the risks were palpable as their regiments encountered various threats, including drone strikes and obstacles from recent airstrikes.

During one mission, after having to divert due to incoming Russian drones, Serhiy obtained a damaged U.S.-made Bradley vehicle, a sign of Ukraine's reliance on American military aid. Both he and Artem expressed skepticism about whether European nations could adequately substitute for U.S. support in the ongoing conflict, fearing that negotiations could result in unfavorable terms for Ukraine.

As they fight for their homeland, both soldiers echoed a common desire for peace—though not at the expense of their territory or sovereignty.