"Cannon fodder" of the Kremlin. Russia expands recruitment to citizens of African countries

Russia is expanding its recruitment of citizens from African countries for the war in Ukraine, aiming to compensate for losses and mobilization shortages. Despite official denials, reports indicate that foreign nationals from over 150 countries are fighting for Russia. In the first nine months of this year, recruitment focused on nations with weak legal and democratic standings, with significant increases in enlistments from Burundi and Zimbabwe. Recruitment methods include false job promises and financial incentives. Some African governments have protested against these practices, leading Russia to halt military recruitment in several countries and shift to recruiting for its defense industry instead. Since the invasion began, Russia has signed contracts with nearly 46,000 foreign nationals, including over 5,400 from Africa.