Amnesty International has accused Russia of human trafficking, alleging that foreign nationals are being tricked into fighting on Ukraine's front lines. The human rights organization's report, released on Thursday, details how individuals from countries including Brazil, Colombia, Sri Lanka, and South Africa were lured to Russia with promises of well-paid civilian or non-combat jobs, only to be coerced into joining the Russian army upon arrival.

These tactics are being employed as Russia seeks to bolster its military ranks amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The report highlights that Russian recruiters are also targeting migrants and refugees within Russia, compelling them to enlist. Agnes Callamard, Amnesty International’s secretary general, stated that the exploitation and coercion involved in these recruitment practices lead to the conclusion that many cases constitute human trafficking, as defined by the United Nations Palermo Protocol.

Amnesty International's findings are based on interviews conducted between 2024 and 2026 with prisoners of war held in Ukrainian camps, foreign nationals currently serving with Russian forces, their family members, legal representatives, human rights activists, and journalists. The investigation revealed the use of local agents and misleading online advertisements to deceive potential recruits in their home countries.

One documented case involved a South African man who applied for a driving job in Poland. Upon arrival in Moscow to pick up a truck, he was informed that his destination had changed and he was now to become a soldier. Many recruits were also promised significant salaries and bonuses that were never delivered, and their freedom of movement was severely restricted after signing military contracts.

During their training, recruits from Brazil and Sri Lanka reported having their passports and mobile phones confiscated before being deployed to the front lines. This practice raises serious concerns about the vulnerable position of these foreign nationals who are allegedly being used as "cannon fodder" in the conflict.

Both Russia and Ukraine have, since the commencement of Russia's invasion over four years ago, recruited thousands of foreign nationals to serve in their respective armies. The scale of these foreign enlistments underscores the significant manpower needs of both sides in the protracted war.

While Amnesty International has detailed these accusations, the organization has stated it cannot conduct inquiries regarding foreign nationals currently serving within Ukrainian forces. The report focuses on the alleged abuses committed by Russian recruiters and military personnel against vulnerable foreign nationals.

The revelations from Amnesty International are expected to draw international scrutiny and put further pressure on Russia regarding its conduct in the war. The organization's findings highlight a disturbing pattern of deception and coercion, raising critical questions about the treatment and rights of foreign nationals involved in the conflict.