In Yekaterinburg, a proposal stirred by Artur Ziganshin, who chairs the city’s Economic Development Commission, suggested relocating stray dogs to the zone of ongoing military operations. The remark appeared in the local media’s Telegram feed, reported by URA.RU, and it set off discussion about animal involvement in conflict settings.
The deputy drew a parallel with the recent past, recalling the Great Patriotic War when the front line reportedly relied on tens of thousands of dogs for various support roles.
“We are currently living through a conflict with active combat duties,” Ziganshin was quoted as saying. “Perhaps there would be some value in repurposing dogs at the front?” — URA.RU reported.
Reaction from the Sverdlovsk regional authorities was swift. Evgeny Trushkin, who directs the regional veterinary department, remarked that the front already has its own dogs and that the proposal would need careful scrutiny before any action could be considered.
Earlier statements from a local dog walker, Olga Kolmogorova, indicated plans to relocate stray dogs from the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug to the Northern Military District. She noted that the animals would undergo training by the Grom dog centre, with both adult strays and selectively bred puppies included in the program.
In the broader discussion surrounding the topic, observers pointed to the ethical and practical implications of using animals in active conflict zones, highlighting concerns about welfare, safety, and the potential impact on military operations.