The Russian military is running so low on small arms and ammunition that it now relies on entrenching tools for close combat, according to a recent UK intelligence report.
Some Russian-mobilized reservists have reported that their commanding officers sent them to attack Ukrainian soldiers using only firearms and shovels.
The “weapons” are likely MPL-50 entrenching tools that have been in service with the Russian military for more than 150 years.
Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 5 March 2023
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— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) March 5, 2023
The report notes that Moscow’s use of shovels as weapons highlights the “brutal and low-tech fighting” involved in the invasion of Ukraine.
“Recent evidence suggests an increase in close combat in Ukraine,” the UK Ministry of Defence wrote.
“This is probably a result of the Russian command continuing to insist on offensive action largely consisting of dismounted infantry, with less support from artillery fire because Russia is short of munitions.”
‘Unprepared’ for War
When the invasion began in February last year, fears surfaced that Ukraine might lose heavily to invading Russian forces.
However, the tables have turned as Western weapons and equipment continue arriving in Kyiv, and the Russians are now having problems with their supplies.
Several videos of Russians looting grocery stores for food have proven that the invading forces are experiencing logistical shortcomings.
Multiple cases of newly mobilized soldiers complaining about using rusty firearms were also documented in October.
The soldiers also reportedly had to buy their own grenades and body armor for protection against the Ukrainian resistance.
One of the Russian reservists called up to fight in Ukraine admitted being “physically” and “psychologically” unprepared for the war.
