Britain’s defence ministry in an intelligence update on Sunday said Russia is trying to mobilise foreigners for its ‘special operation’ in Ukraine, to avoid opposition within the country. According to reports, there are at least 6 million Central Asian migrants in Russia.
British intelligence reported that as of late June 2023, Russia has been publishing recruitment advertisements, appealing citizens of neighbouring countries to join its forces for fighting in Ukraine. “Online adverts have been observed in Armenia and Kazakhstan offering 4,95,000 roubles ($5,140) in initial payments and salaries from 190,000 roubles ($1,973). here have been recruitment efforts in Kazakhstan's northern Qostanai region, appealing to the ethnic Russian population,” British intelligence reported.
The intel update said Russia has been trying to woo Central Asian migrants, at least since May 2023, to join its forces for fighting in Ukraine. Russia promised fast-track citizenship and salaries of up to $4,160. “Uzbek migrant builders in Mariupol have reportedly had their passports confiscated upon arrival and been coerced to join the Russian military. There are at least six million migrants from Central Asia in Russia, which the Kremlin likely sees as potential recruits,” it said.
According to reports, Russia has been trying to attract foreigners to avoid unpopular opinions domestically ahead of the presidential polls in 2024. “Russia likely wishes to avoid further unpopular domestic mobilisation measures in the run-up to the 2024 Presidential elections. Exploiting foreign nationals allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of mounting casualties,” British intelligence said.
