The Russian military is actively recruiting Egyptians to support its frontline operations in Ukraine, Kyiv’s Operational Tactical Group has claimed.
“Foreign volunteers” are being deployed in embattled Kharkiv Oblast to conduct hostilities, according to the report.
The move is reportedly part of Moscow’s strategy to induct mercenaries from countries with “difficult economic situations” to bolster its ground forces.
Before Egypt, the invading forces targeted Africans, Syrians, and Kazakhs in its recruitment drive.
A captured Nepali citizen also admitted to Ukrainian authorities in June that there may be more than 3,000 Nepalis who joined the Russian Army.
Recruitment Scheme
According to the Nepali prisoner of war (POW), Russia’s foreign recruits were promised high sign-on bonuses and allowances for a “job away from the frontline.”
They were also told they would receive three months of military training, which did not happen.
This recruitment scheme by Moscow has been made public multiple times, with bonuses reaching as high as 495,000 Russian rubles ($5,300) and a monthly salary of up to 190,000 rubles ($2,000).
Foreign recruits were also being enticed with health insurance and Russian passports for them and their families.
“The only reason (for joining) is to make money,” the POW told the Kyiv Independent. “If you get a job in the private sector (in Nepal), you will get a maximum of around $200 per month.”
Depleted Force
Reports of Egyptians on Ukrainian front lines come amid reports that Moscow’s frontline strength has been depleted due to Kyiv’s intensifying attacks.
Armed Forces of Ukraine commander Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk claimed that the invading forces lost nearly 8,220 personnel and 1,424 pieces of military equipment in the past week.
A separate UK Ministry of Defence intelligence report also said the Russian Army had sustained 70,000 casualties in the past two months.
The increase in losses was attributed to Moscow’s decision to open a new front in Kharkiv while maintaining pressure on the eastern and southern parts of the war-ravaged nation.