Russia Expands Army Recruitment to Neighboring Nations Amidst Depleted Ranks

Russia is recruiting foreigners and migrant workers from neighboring countries to replenish its depleted army, which has suffered around 300,000 war casualties, according to the UK Defense Ministry. The move is seen as an attempt by the Kremlin to avoid unpopular domestic mobilization measures and acquire additional personnel for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Russian military recruitment advertisements have targeted Armenian and Kazakhstani audiences, offering high payments and fast-track citizenship. Migrant workers are being leveraged, with some reportedly having their passports confiscated and being pressured to join the military. The UK MoD estimates that there are over six million Central Asian migrants in Russia, all seen as potential recruits.