Ukrainian soldiers have taken a Colombian national prisoner, who was allegedly misled into joining the conflict on the side of Russian forces. The capture occurred during a skirmish involving the 152nd Separate Reconnaissance Brigade, named after Simon Petliura.
The Colombian’s story reflects a troubling trend of foreign nationals being recruited by Russia under false pretenses. According to the detained individual, he was promised legal employment and high wages in Russia. Instead of a civilian job, he found himself thrust into frontline combat against Ukrainian troops.
Recruitment tactics employed by Russia include:
- Financial traps: Large signing bonuses that are unattainable in Latin America.
- False promises: Concealment of the actual mortality rates during assaults.
- Legal coercion: Manipulation of immigration documents.
Officials from the 152nd Brigade emphasize that the Kremlin systematically exploits citizens from third countries as disposable resources in the conflict. The Colombian, who had no prior issues with Ukraine, became a victim of Russian propaganda.
“The promises turned out to be a trap. People are being used as resources, as expendable material,” the Ukrainian soldiers stated.
Ukrainian forces have captured a Colombian mercenary who was misled into fighting for Russia, highlighting the deceptive recruitment tactics used by the Kremlin. This incident underscores the exploitation of foreign nationals in the ongoing conflict.