This chapter uncovers the disturbing reality of men from South Asian countries being deceived and trafficked to join the Russian army as mercenaries in the Ukrainian conflict. It exposes the exploitation of vulnerable individuals like Salfaraz who were duped into dangerous military service through false promises and deceitful tactics.
Desperately low on troops for its protracted war with Ukraine, the Russian military is relying on men from countries like India to fill its ranks. Journalist Shalu Yadav tells the story of a man who was tricked into joining the army and managed to escape.
This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Rob Byers, and guest-hosted by Haleema Shah.
Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained
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