Discover the disturbing reality of men from South Asian countries deceived into joining the Russian army for the Ukrainian conflict. Uncover the deceptive recruitment tactics used by travel agents to force men into military service. Explore the struggles and desperation faced by South Asians in the Russian military, shedding light on their challenging journeys. Unveil the dark side of the mercenary industry and the risks of relying on non-state actors in global conflicts.
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Quick takeaways
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.