Russian Soldier Defects to Ukraine, Joins RDK Fighting Force
A Russian citizen, known by the call sign “Cherny,” has defected to the Ukrainian side of the conflict and is now fighting with the Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK), a pro-Ukraine paramilitary group composed of Russian citizens. Cherny’s journey from serving in the Russian army to actively opposing it highlights the complexities and shifting allegiances within the ongoing war.
From Invasion Force to Ukrainian Fighter
Cherny initially joined the Russian army in early 2022, coinciding with the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. His unit was deployed to Energodar in the Zaporizhzhye region in December of the same year. He reported being told that local residents would welcome the Russian forces, a claim that proved false. “We were told that we would be welcomed there almost with open arms. That everyone was happy and happy. And when you look at the people, ordinary civilians simply blocked the equipment that was trying to enter there,” Cherny stated, according to reporting by Suspilny.
Disillusionment and Surrender
Witnessing the reality on the ground and growing dissatisfaction with the command led Cherny to attempt desertion. He and five other soldiers were punished and transferred to the Donetsk region, where they were given minimal support. “That’s what we were sent for – so that we could act as a beacon, so that it would be clear whether there is an enemy or not, whether they will liquidate us or not,” Cherny explained. Faced with a bleak situation, he ultimately decided to surrender to Ukrainian forces, stating he even contemplated asking the guards to shoot him rather than return to Russian lines. “I think I told the guard to shoot me. That was the thought. Since I wasn’t going back either,” he said.
Joining the RDK and Providing Intelligence
After two months in captivity, Cherny joined the RDK and began fighting for Ukraine. He believes his prior experience in the Russian army is valuable in providing intelligence about enemy positions and movements. “In Energodar there are places where the enemy gathers, where he can be, where the equipment is located… There is a lot of different information,” he noted. His decision led to estrangement from his family, but he remains resolute in his choice to fight against the Russian occupiers. “I don’t want to participate in this with them… I made a decision for myself – I’d rather defend,” he stated.
The Russian Volunteer Corps
The Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), also known as the Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK), is a far-right paramilitary force composed of Russian citizens fighting in Ukraine against the government of Vladimir Putin . Established in August 2022, the group is subordinated to the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine and was initially part of the International Legion of Ukraine . The RVC has claimed responsibility for cross-border raids into Russian territory, including the Bryansk Oblast in March 2023 and the Belgorod Oblast since May 2023, often operating alongside the Freedom of Russia Legion .
Recent Trends in Surrender
Recent reports indicate a trend of Russian soldiers surrendering to Ukrainian forces. Some Russian prisoners of war have stated they joined the conflict for pragmatic reasons, such as earning money or securing early release from prison . Ukrainian forces have even created an application to facilitate surrender, offering Russian soldiers a chance to become prisoners of war rather than face casualties in what has been described as “meat assaults” .