Shalu Yadav, an independent journalist based in Delhi, dives into the alarming trend of South Asian men misled into joining the Russian army amidst its ongoing war with Ukraine. She recounts the gripping story of a recruit who escaped after realizing the grim deception behind his enlistment. Joining her is Sean McFate, a professor and expert on mercenaries, who discusses the chilling recruitment tactics and the ethical implications of using unsuspecting foreign fighters. Together, they explore the dark realities of modern warfare and the dangerous paths young men are forced to navigate.
Indian nationals deceived into Russian military service under false job offers.
Global reliance on mercenary recruits hides true war costs and prolongs conflicts.
Deep dives
Recruitment of Indian Nationals by Russian Military
Reports reveal Indian nationals recruited to fight for Russian military under false pretenses. Indian investigative agency uncovered network sending individuals to Russia under false job offers. Victims lured with promises of job roles, training camps revealed hidden military objectives.
Training and Realization of Deception
Men from India and Nepal undergo military training without full understanding, signed Russian contracts not comprehended. Recruits, like Safras, deceived into combatant roles after training. Discovery prompts escape attempts and appeals for rescue by victims stuck in Russia.
Global Mercenary Trends and Implications
Involvement of Nepali and Indian citizens reveals wider issue of global mercenary reliance. Private military contractors represent varied tiers in mercenary spectrum. Escalating trend of utilizing foreign recruits disguises actual war costs and impacts accountability. Increased mercenary use risks prolonging conflicts and exacerbates human suffering globally.
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.