Ukrainian officials have asserted that Russian frontline troops are grappling with an outbreak of 'mouse fever,' resulting in a range of symptoms such as vomiting and bleeding eyes, according to a report by the Mirror. The Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) of Ukraine disclosed that the disease has affected Russian units in Kupyansk, particularly amid challenges related to insufficient winter provisions. Describing the ailment as a bacterial infection transmitted through direct contact with rodents or inhaling their feces, the agency outlined various symptoms, including severe headaches, high body temperature, rashes, redness, decreased blood pressure, eye hemorrhages, and frequent nausea and vomiting.
The intelligence agency claimed that Russian commanders dismissed reports of the outbreak, attributing them to attempts by soldiers to avoid combat. In the Kupyansk front direction, the HUR reported a widespread occurrence of mouse fever, significantly impacting the combat capabilities of Russian troops. Complaints from Russian army personnel about the fever were allegedly disregarded by command, as they were perceived as excuses to shirk combat participation, given that the initial stage of 'mouse fever' resembles common flu symptoms.
As Ukraine's armed forces transition to a more defensive stance after an unsuccessful summer counteroffensive against Russia's army, they are reinforcing field defenses. Despite receiving Western-supplied weapons, Ukraine faced resistance from the Kremlin's entrenched defenses along the approximately 600-mile front line, lacking crucial air cover.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly anticipates that Western allies will tire of financing Ukraine's costly war effort, paving the way for a new offensive push next year. In response, he has directed the Russian economy towards a war footing. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains optimistic about the United States' commitment to providing billions in aid to support Kyiv's ongoing fight.
