The Russia army is all but defeated. Even their supposed "elite" forces are on their heels and falling back. Putin is simply throwing bodies at the front lines in hopes of blunting the Ukrainian counter offensive.

The Kherson retreat has thus far been more orderly than the rout in Kharkiv, but that may change. For there to be an orderly retreat a dependable fighting unit must hold the line and be willing to give their lives for the retreating forces behind them. All indications are the best Ruskie forces are withdrawing and untrained cannon fodder are being sent to the front line to cover the withdrawal. This could very well lead to another rout.

Cruel, cynical incompetence. A willingness to sacrifice untrained human beings in hopes of preserving more experienced units for the fight once winter is over. It may well backfire.