Hundreds of demoralised Russian troops have switched sides and are now fighting for Ukraine, it has been claimed. Ukrainian officials say a new Freedom of Russia legion has been formed for troops disillusioned with their mission.
It comes amid reports of plummeting morale among Russian soldiers - with some said to be refusing orders and even shooting down their own planes. The Russian armed forces personnel have already started training to fight alongside their new comrades, it is claimed.
The Ukrainian Defence Ministry said on its Telegram channel that commanders have been visiting captured and surrendered Russian troops "in order to select those who wish to serve". In a follow-up post it said that the "first volunteers" had already started individual additional training.
