Russian President Wladimir Putin on Friday advocated the evacuation of civilians from parts of Ukraine’s southern Kherson region, saying civilians should not do so suffer from the most dangerous activities in the area.

However, Ukraine has said the evacuations involve the forced relocation of civilians, a war crime Russia denies.

Meanwhile, the Russian military is likely using units that threaten to shoot soldiers planning a retreat from Ukraine, according to a report by the UK Defense Ministry.

Latest Defense Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – November 4, 2022

Find out more about the UK government’s response: https://t.co/CWHuZrKery

� #StandWithUkraine � pic.twitter.com/bYLF2ONZOR

— Department of Defense � (@DefenceHQ) November 4, 2022

The ministry said, “Due to low morale and a reluctance to fight, Russian forces have probably started deploying ‘barrier troops’ or ‘blockade units’.”

“These units threaten to shoot their retreating soldiers to force offensives and have been used by Russian forces in previous conflicts,” she added.

Also read: Russia will run out of arms before Ukraine, says UK Defense Secretary

British intelligence has also reported that Russian generals likely told their commanders to use arms against deserters.

The Defense Ministry said the tactic of shooting deserters “probably reflects the poor quality, low morale and indiscipline of the Russian armed forces.”

“Generals also probably wanted to maintain defensive positions to the death.”

Last month, The New York Times published a detailed report on Russian soldiers’ intercepted calls in Ukraine, in which it spoke about the widespread atrocities they are facing and their anger to invade with Putin’s decision.

Photo: manhhai on flickr