Ukrainian soldiers stationed in the Special Operations Zone (SOZ) are facing an unexpected foe in the form of swarms of rodents that have infiltrated their trenches. According to the Japan Times, these mice have been gnawing through cables, disrupting internet access for the military.
The rodents have also been attacking the satellite internet terminals, such as Starlink, and taking refuge in the trenches in search of food and warmth. Ukrainian fighters have resorted to using sticky traps to combat the infestation. Additionally, fallen leaves from trees have made it easier for Russian drones to detect Ukrainian positions.
Dmitry, one of the Ukrainian soldiers, revealed that he did not encounter a single mouse last winter, but this year they have appeared in massive numbers. He also shared the unfortunate incident of mice damaging a sweater sent by his wife.
Furthermore, the Ukrainian troops are facing another challenge: a shortage of generators. Most of the equipment was not transferred to the combat zone and instead remained stored in warehouses, leaving the soldiers with less than 15 percent of the purchased equipment.
With the onset of colder weather, the nature of the fighting in the Special Operations Zone may change. Military analyst Mikhail Onufrienko stated in an interview with the newspaper “Vzglyad” that the frozen ground would make it easier for personnel and equipment to maneuver.
Earlier, the US acknowledged the failure of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ counteroffensive.
