Ukraine War: Russia Fighting With Recruits From 126 Countries, Report Reveals

New Delhi: Reports suggest that Russia has recruited thousands of youth from 126 countries of the world for the Ukraine war. They were promised jobs and a better life. But as soon as they reached Russia, many were handed weapons and sent to the front. The youth of many countries of Africa, South Asia and Latin America have become victims of this blatant deception. The network of brokers and fake agents is playing a major role in this. There are many sad faces in the stories who had gone in search of work and got trapped in the battlefield.

What kind of deception was given to these youth?

Most of the youth were promised jobs as technicians, cleaners or guards. The lure of high salary and residency was shown. Many took loans and gave huge sums of money to the agents. Some were given fixed-wage papers, which they could not understand.

What were they made to do after reaching Russia?

Then they were made to sign documents whose language they did not understand. That document actually turned out to be a military contract. Within days he was sent to the front without basic training. After being handed over weapons, they were deployed in drone operations and on the front line.

What is said to be their average life on the front line?

According to reports, the average activity of new recruits lasts only for a few days. The figure of 72 hours has appeared in many stories. They face the greatest risk from drone strikes and landmines.

What happens if youth protest?

The youth who protest are threatened. Some were sent to jail. Cases of assault are registered against some. Many families are in shock and are unable to trace their children.

How does the network of brokers work?

Local agents and fake travel companies post job advertisements on social media. They send people abroad by showing dreams. Links to these agents have been found from neighboring countries to Latin America. Poverty and unemployment are the biggest fuel of this trap.

The youth of which countries are most affected?

Large numbers have been found from Africa and South Asia. Youth from countries like Bangladesh and Cameroon were mainly affected. Unemployment and youth frustration are high in these places.

What does an example from Bangladesh say?

A Bangladeshi man paid more than 10 thousand dollars in fees after getting the promise of a job as a cleaner. As soon as he reached Moscow, he was made to sign military documents. Within a short time he was given weapons and sent to the front.

What steps are necessary to stop this work?

Governments should step up scrutiny of agenting networks. But international coordination will remain important. Clear global rules are needed regarding such methods of military recruitment. The roots of poverty and unemployment will have to be dug out. Youth should be given legitimate employment options. Otherwise this human money will again be spent on some war.