The Documentary Podcast Scammed, robbed, traumatised – life after war for Russian soldiers
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Aug 30, 2025 Sergei Goryashko is a BBC Russian journalist investigating the harsh realities faced by Russian soldiers returning from the Ukraine conflict, revealing how many have been scammed and robbed, exacerbating their PTSD and mental health struggles. Alongside him, Hyunjung Kim from BBC Korean discusses the recent ban on dog meat in South Korea, exploring its historical context and the mixed reactions from various communities affected by the change. Together, they delve into the complexities of trauma, exploitation, and shifting cultural norms.
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Returning Soldiers Carry Big Financial Risk
- Russian soldiers returning from Ukraine often bring large sums from bonuses, making them visible targets for scams and theft.
- State propaganda promising high pay increased public awareness that veterans might carry cash, which attracted criminals.
Airport Extortion Scheme Exposed
- At Sheremetyevo Airport police and taxi drivers targeted returning veterans and extorted huge sums.
- Investigations arrested officers and drivers, but similar schemes likely exist elsewhere.
Nikita: Wound, Bonus, Then Robbed
- Nikita left as a welder to join the army, was wounded, then robbed of two million rubles by traffic police while drunk.
- The accused officers enlisted to avoid prosecution and the money was never recovered.