A multifaceted analysis of sources — from combat reports, through deserters' certificates to authoritative papers — leads to the conclusion that the 4 key factors are the repressive culture *diedshchins* and force in the army, the ubiquitous Cremlow propaganda, financial incentives combined with terror, and full impunity for crimes. It is this combination that makes soldiers — even in the face of gross war crimes — loyal to command and do not effort to rebel massively.