Putin's Ploy: Russian Military Deceiving Foreigners to Replenish Decimated Forces Fighting in Ukraine

Vladimir Putin’s military is scouring the globe for new recruits to bolster its weakened forces in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Since the invasion of its western neighbor over two years ago, the Russian army has suffered severe losses. Both the UK and France estimate that between 450,000 and 500,000 casualties have occurred.

France claims that at least 150,000 of those were fatalities on the front lines. For comparison, the Soviet army lost only 15,000 soldiers over a decade of engagement in Afghanistan.

Desperate to replenish its frontline troops, the Kremlin initially targeted penal colonies. Subsequently, they expanded recruitment efforts, trying to attract foreign mercenaries.

The latest revelation indicates that Indian men are being tricked into joining Putin’s ranks. A BBC investigation found that agents had deceived numerous Indians with promises of education and jobs. Upon arrival in Russia, these individuals were reportedly coerced into combat roles.

India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that two Indian nationals had been killed while fighting for the Kremlin in Ukraine.

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The statement from the Ministry emphasized the regret over these losses and advised caution for Indian nationals considering employment opportunities in Russia.

Russia’s recruitment drive has extended to other regions, with hundreds of Nepalese and Sri Lankan citizens reportedly joining Putin’s forces. Kathmandu confirmed that at least 20 Nepalese have died in the conflict, and Sri Lanka reported the death of at least 16 former soldiers.