Think of the Russians during WWII -- they had "political troops" stationed behind the lines to kill any soldiers who might retreat. Same for these guys.
I saw this defector on FoxNews last night. He pretty much confirmed what you say.
I expect that our plans will seek to take out the bad guys and the nasty stuff in the "inner defensive circle" in such a way as to allow the cannon fodder out in front to surrender, as it sounds like they will get a better break from our troops than they would their own leaders.