"There's no chance": Ukrainian snipers discuss mobilization, training, and combat missions.

Two snipers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been in the military for over ten years, defending Mariupol, Shyrokyne, Popasna, and Zolote. Currently, they are in a conditional rear position but are ready to be on the front line at any moment. The fighters shared with "RBK-Ukraine" their views on conscription and what they teach and how snipers operate.

The journalists spoke with two members of the sniper group within the reconnaissance unit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine — the group commander nicknamed "Python" and a fighter known as "Physical Education Teacher," a first-category sniper. The military described their unit as "specific" and mentioned that mobilized individuals do not join it. The overwhelming majority of the team members are professional soldiers rather than mobilized individuals or volunteers. The commander, who has four children, could have applied for a deferment but chose not to, as he believes "the children need protection." Meanwhile, "Physical Education Teacher" joined the army as a 19-year-old volunteer, surprising those around him with his decision.

"It's even rarer for mobilized individuals to get in. More often, they come through transfers from other units. Occasionally, there are civilians, but mostly, they are motivated volunteers," — said the group commander.

Additionally, "Python" and "Physical Education Teacher" shared their thoughts on forced mobilization. They believe it is a "bad idea," as it places individuals in situations where they do not want to be, and "there will definitely be no good outcomes from such people."

"Forcing those who do not want to be on the front lines is like asking a 12-year-old to solve a university-level problem."

As it turns out, the fighters have to perform various tasks beyond just accurately shooting at the enemy from a distance. According to the soldiers, they can be infantrymen, assault troops, or snipers. Moreover, there are individuals in the unit who perform other specific tasks, such as working with drones ("flyers") or fire adjusters. They explained that training occurs in several stages. Initially, everyone receives basic infantry training. Then they acquire the necessary knowledge for reconnaissance. After that, they choose which role suits them best — whether as an aerial reconnaissance operator, a machine gunner, or a medic, and also undergo additional courses if necessary.

"The work is such that if you lack the desire, no instructor can force you to do it," — the fighters added.

The snipers explained that they are a high-value target for the enemy on the front line — they are monitored and hunted. They recounted an incident during which "Physical Education Teacher" nearly lost his life. The soldier was targeting Russian machine gunners, helping his unit maintain positions in the Severian direction. When the enemies realized that a sniper rifle was "taking them out," they began firing first from mortars, then from the Grad multiple rocket launcher, and from the Solntsepek system. The rifle was damaged — a photo of the mangled weapon was published on the portal.

It is worth noting that on November 25, Sergeant of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Andriy spoke out about mobilization and the actions of territorial recruitment centers. In the military's opinion, the workers of the TIK should be allowed to shoot at individuals who resist.

We remind you that people's deputy Irina Konstankevich explained where the Defense Forces can recruit another 100,000 fighters without touching men in the rear.