A rookie Russian soldier was caught on camera making a dangerous blunder when he accidentally fired a rocket-propelled grenade launcher towards his own feet during a training session.
Footage circulating online shows the inexperienced soldier struggling to handle the weapon as he attempts to position it on his shoulder. The launcher appears difficult for him to control, with the soldier repeatedly fumbling with it.
As he tries to adjust his position, the weapon suddenly fires into the ground, triggering a small explosion and sending the soldier scrambling away from the area.
The incident prompted an immediate furious reaction from his trainer, who was filming the session. The instructor could be heard shouting at the soldier and questioning how he could have made such a serious mistake.
The soldier is seen moments earlier awkwardly attempting to get the RPG into position, highlighting his apparent difficulty handling the weapon properly.
The footage has since attracted attention online, particularly amid continuing scrutiny of Russia’s military capabilities and the challenges faced by its forces during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The incident comes as Ukrainian forces continue carrying out attacks against Russian military and infrastructure targets.
Ukraine has also launched repeated drone strikes against Ozon, one of Russia’s largest online retailers, as part of efforts to put pressure on Moscow’s economy and war effort.
Meanwhile, Britain’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently visited Kyiv and pledged continued British support for Ukraine. He also said the UK would provide assistance involving long-range missile technology and drone components.
Russia has criticised Britain’s support for Ukraine, accusing London of becoming directly involved in the conflict and warning of possible consequences.
