Amnesty: Russia traffics foreigners to fight in Ukraine

A recent investigative report has uncovered a scheme in which foreign nationals are enticed to travel to Russia with promises of legitimate employment, only to be compelled to join the Russian armed forces upon arrival. The investigation, conducted by an independent human‑rights organization, examined dozens of cases involving individuals from several European and Asian countries who were recruited through online advertisements and travel agencies that advertised high‑paying jobs in construction, logistics and agriculture. Upon reaching Russian territory, the victims were detained by security officials, handed military identification and assigned to active units, with many reporting that refusal to comply resulted in threats of imprisonment or deportation.

The report highlights that the practice appears to be coordinated with local authorities in certain border regions, where recruitment offices lack transparent licensing and are linked to military enlistment centers. Russian officials have not publicly commented on the findings, while diplomatic representatives of the affected nations have expressed concern and called for a joint inquiry. Human‑rights groups warn that the forced conscription of non‑citizens may violate international law and exacerbate tensions over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The investigation urges both Russian and foreign governments to implement stricter oversight of recruitment agencies and to provide protection for individuals who may be targeted by such deceptive practices.