(NewsNation) — Ukrainian forces report an increased effort to counter Russian attacks, but a rat and mouse infestation is plaguing soldiers in the trenches, according to reports.
The rodents have reportedly swarmed soldiers during their sleep, causing injuries, and leading to an outbreak of what military intelligence has labeled “mouse fever,” resulting in illnesses among the troops, CNN reported.
Videos shared on social media depict the extent of the problem, with mice and rats infiltrating sleeping quarters, power generators and even military equipment.
The infestations are attributed to the changing seasons, mice mating cycles and the static nature of the conflict. The rodents, seeking food and warmth in the harsh winter, are spreading disease along the nearly 1,000-kilometer frontline.
Ukraine’s military intelligence reported an outbreak of “mouse fever” in Russian units near Kupiansk in Kharkiv region, causing symptoms such as fevers, rashes, low blood pressure, hemorrhages in the eyes, vomiting and severe back pain.
This comes as Ukrainian missiles targeted a Russian-occupied region in western Ukraine, resulting in 27 fatalities and 25 injuries. The United Nations swiftly condemned the attack as tensions between the two nations continue to rise.
Both countries have engaged in missile exchanges during the winter months, with Russia bombarding Ukraine with volleys of hundreds of missiles.
Weeks ago, a drone strike hit oil depots 40 miles inside the Russian border, triggering a massive fire.
“The situation is dire,” Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash said on “NewsNation Prime,” emphasizing the critical need for U.S. aid to Ukraine amid negotiations in Congress.
A $60 billion aid package is currently under discussion in Congress, with negotiations hindered by a linkage to border policy. Smith expressed concern about the delay, stating, “Ukraine is holding on by their fingernails right now, and they need our support to stop Putin from taking over the whole country.”
Smith admitted that reaching a deal would be challenging, citing the Republican insistence on tying Ukraine aid to border policy. Despite bipartisan efforts in the Senate, House Republicans remain a potential obstacle, with their stance on a compromise unclear.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed concerns about a potential Donald Trump presidency citing the former president’s reluctance to support Ukraine during the ongoing conflict.