This was reported by the partisan movement Atesh, citing its sources within Russian ranks. According to the partisans, the command of Russia’s 506th Motorized Rifle Regiment has started recruiting women into assault units to compensate for severe manpower shortages.“This shows that the occupiers have exhausted their resources of mercenaries and contract soldiers and are now ready to send anyone into battle, turning women into cannon fodder,” the movement’s statement said.In addition, women are not only sent to the front line but also used for infiltration — if assaults fail, they are ordered to change into civilian clothes and gather intelligence on Ukrainian troop positions and movements.According to the partisans, it is virtually impossible for these women to retreat or refuse orders: their lives depend entirely on their commanders. Such actions demonstrate the Russian army’s complete loss of moral compass.“Atesh agents within the 506th regiment continue to transmit data on personnel movements, equipment, and preparations for assault operations. We appeal to the servicemen of the 506th regiment and the women the regime is sending to certain death: your lives are more important than criminal orders. Do not become part of this cynical plan,” Atesh concluded.On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Ukrainian TV presenter and volunteer Denys Khrystov released unedited video footage of civilians killed by the Russian army near the railway station in the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, where fierce fighting is ongoing.