Promised pay, protection and even citizenship, many instead encounter a battlefield where survival is uncertain and support is minimal. According to the “I Want to Live” project, more than 40 percent of foreign mercenaries fighting on Russia’s side die within the first four months of their deployment to the front in Ukraine. The figures suggest extremely high casualty rates among non-Russian recruits.

Analysts involved in the project say these fighters are treated as expendable manpower rather than trained soldiers. They argue that the deaths are not isolated incidents but part of a systematic pattern. According to the project, recruits are usually given uniforms but may not even be issued a rifle before being ordered forward.

Commanders, they say, prioritize speed and pressure on Ukrainian positions over the lives of the fighters involved.

Even Russian war correspondents have acknowledged heavy losses, including thousands of foreign fighters who were allegedly misled by false promises about their roles and chances of survival.

Over 40% of Russian recruits die within the first four months of service

According to Ukrainian media, Moscow has been particularly active in Africa and Latin America. Recruits from countries such as Brazil have joined Russian units, but analysts say their position within the ranks is especially precarious.

Many lack language skills, combat experience and any meaningful integration into Russian forces.

Rather misleading headline. Obviously the foreign recruits are cannon fodder.

Such bias it's embarrassing.

1 hour ago, bangadang said:

Such bias it's embarrassing.

Can'r begin to imagine why a Polish channel is not singing the praises of Mother Russia!