Yes, the Soviet Union, often referred to as Russia in the context of WWII, did shoot its own troops during World War II. This was a grim aspect of their military discipline and a policy enforced with severe penalties.
Reasons for Shooting Soviet Troops
The practice of shooting their own soldiers served several purposes within the Soviet military structure, primarily to enforce discipline, prevent unauthorized retreats, and instill unwavering loyalty amidst the brutal fighting on the Eastern Front.
- Preventing Retreat: Soldiers attempting to retreat from the front lines were frequently targeted. Special "barrier troops" or blocking detachments were positioned behind the main forces with orders to shoot any soldier attempting to flee or fall back without authorization. This was a critical component of maintaining defensive lines and pushing forward offensives.
- Enforcing Discipline: Beyond direct combat situations, strict disciplinary measures were in place for various infractions, including desertion, insubordination, or perceived disloyalty.
- Fate of Captured Generals: The severity of Soviet military policy extended even to high-ranking officers who had been captured by the enemy. For instance, Soviet generals Ponedelin and Kirillov, who were captured by Hitler's forces in August 1941, faced dire consequences upon their return or even posthumously, with families often being persecuted.
Order No. 227: "Not One Step Back!"
A significant directive that formalized and intensified these practices was Order No. 227, issued by Joseph Stalin on July 28, 1942. Famously known as the "Not One Step Back!" order, this decree mandated extreme measures against unauthorized retreats and desertion.
- Key Provisions:
- It prohibited any unauthorized retreat or abandonment of positions.
- It ordered the creation of penal battalions for disgraced soldiers to undertake dangerous assignments.
- Crucially, it established blocking detachments (zagradotryady) behind the main forces with the explicit order to shoot "panic-mongers and cowards" and any soldiers attempting to flee the battlefield.
This order underscored the Soviet command's willingness to use lethal force against its own personnel to ensure compliance and prevent collapse, reflecting the immense pressures and brutal nature of warfare on the Eastern Front.
