In a riveting revelation, a Ukrainian sniper known as “Ghost” has emerged from the shadows to share the astonishing account of how he has eliminated 147 Russian soldiers with deadly precision from distances of up to 1.5km. This enigmatic commander of the renowned “Ghosts of Bakhmut” unit leaves no room for doubt as he recounts the chilling reality of his job, likening it to a routine task that requires a single, precise shot to finish his enemy.
With an air of unflinching determination, Ghost reveals that beyond his own impressive tally, his elite unit has successfully eliminated over 1,200 targets in just 17 months. The magnitude of their impact on the battlefield is unparalleled and underscores their exceptional skills and unwavering commitment to defending their homeland.
Speaking exclusively to Corriere, Ghost sheds light on the meticulous process involved in each kill, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stealth and remaining undetected. For him, eliminating an enemy soldier is akin to any other profession; however, there is no room for second thoughts or hesitation. Failure means certain death at the hands of relentless Russian forces.
To ensure accuracy and accountability, kills made by Ghost and his squad are meticulously recorded electronically using advanced sighting technology integrated into their rifles. Following each operation, they maintain their positions for three to five hours to confirm that their targets have been effectively neutralized. The Ghosts of Bakhmut operate with utmost professionalism and comprise approximately 20 expert snipers who have fought valiantly in pivotal battles since the outbreak of hostilities in February 2022.
These skilled marksmen have been deployed across various strategic locations such as Bucha, Irpin, Mariupol, Sumy, Kharkiv, Bakhmut, and Avdiivka. Their presence on the frontlines of Pokrovsk, in the heart of Donbass, is crucial as they strive to halt the relentless Russian offensives and prevent further territorial encroachment.
Ghost’s dedication to his mission is amplified by his commitment to protect his loved ones. Concealing his identity from the public eye, he fears that his daughter Vladislava, aged 13, may become a target for reprisals by vengeful Russians seeking to punish him. His success as one of Ukraine’s premier snipers has made him a high-value target himself.
Patience is a virtue that Ghost holds dear in his profession. Contrary to popular portrayals in movies that romanticize sniper work, he emphasizes the importance of waiting for the perfect moment rather than engaging in excessive shooting which risks exposure and danger. Each shot requires precise calculation and meticulous attention to detail. While he has achieved remarkable distances in some instances – including an impressive kill at 1.5km – most engagements occur within a range of 300 to 500 meters.
The Ghost’s unit boasts one of the furthest sniper kills on record, with confirmed targets struck from a distance equivalent to three times the height of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. This extraordinary feat underscores their exceptional marksmanship and unmatched capabilities.
During their daring missions, Ghost and his team operate in patrols consisting of eight members. Two snipers take up strategic positions while two officers handle communication and drone operations. Three team members provide cover with machine guns, and one assumes responsibility for rapid evacuation if needed. These squads often venture beyond Russian front lines under cover of darkness, silently trekking several kilometers from their parked jeeps before reaching operational areas.
Endurance plays a pivotal role in the success of these elite snipers who spend up to 16 hours per day lying in wait at assigned positions. Their mastery of camouflage techniques ensures they remain virtually invisible even when exposed to the prying eyes of their adversaries.
Equipped with the powerful American Barrett M107A1 rifle, Ghost and his team are armed with lethal precision. The effective range of this weapon reaches an astonishing 1.14 miles, making it a formidable tool in their arsenal. Additionally, they employ the Barrett MRAD as well as Ukrainian rifles such as the UAR-10 and Snipex Alligator. Their armament enables them to engage high-value Russian targets effectively while spearheading Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations.
The toll this relentless work takes on Ghost and his comrades cannot be overstated. Contrary to romanticized depictions, their reality is one of survival and perseverance rather than glamorous heroism. Proficiency in shooting alone is not enough; they must possess survival skills, environmental awareness, and camouflage expertise to navigate hostile terrain successfully.
Ghost admits that the commitment required for their mission is all-consuming. There are no breaks or weekends for these tireless warriors who endure physical exhaustion and mental strain on a daily basis. After each mission, they return battered and drained, knowing that their duty demands nothing less than complete dedication.
Having embarked on his career as a sniper in 2014 following Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea, Ghost’s journey has been marked by resilience and unwavering patriotism. He received training from British, American, Canadian, and Lithuanian instructors in 2016 before assuming his current role as commander of the Ghosts of Bakhmut unit. Despite encountering danger at every turn, he proudly reveals that not a single member of his team has perished thus far.
Their success can be attributed to their unity and self-sufficiency – qualities that set them apart from others on the battlefield. Every aspect of their mission is executed independently within their tight-knit unit. From drivers to truck repairers, they rely solely on themselves for support services—an essential factor contributing to their continued survival and cohesion.
Bravery, according to Ghost, is a quality that can be nurtured. In addition to physical strength and resilience, an unwavering focus on the mission and a deep sense of patriotism are essential. Each member must understand the purpose behind their actions and be willing to make immense sacrifices for the greater good.
However, amidst their remarkable achievements, Ghost cautions that the situation in Pokrovsk remains dire. Russian forces launch incessant attacks, armed with an overwhelming number of drones that surpass Ukrainian capabilities. The outcome of this relentless conflict remains uncertain, leaving Ghost and his fellow soldiers on high alert as they strive to defend their homeland against seemingly insurmountable odds.
In conclusion, the gripping account of Ukraine’s enigmatic sniper known as “Ghost” offers a rare glimpse into the world of elite marksmen who silently wage war from concealed positions. Their lethal precision and unwavering dedication serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who fight for freedom against all odds. As Ghost continues his valiant efforts alongside his comrades-in-arms, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance—a nation fighting for its sovereignty against relentless aggression.