**Russian Forces Recruit Over 1,500 Foreign Mercenaries from 48 Countries**
A recent investigation by the independent Russian media outlet Important Stories has revealed that over 1,500 foreign mercenaries from 48 countries have been recruited to fight for Russia against Ukraine. The data was obtained through a leaked database from the Unified Medical Information and Analytical System of Moscow.
Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s earlier claims that Russia had “no need” for foreign fighters, the investigation shows widespread recruitment through official military selection points in Moscow. The recruits come from various countries, including Nepal (603), Sri Lanka (64), China (51), India (43), Serbia (8), Cuba (8), and Latvia (4). Other nationalities include citizens of former Soviet states such as Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Moldova.
**Nepal Tops the List**
Nepal has been at the forefront of this recruitment drive, with at least 603 nationals joining the Russian army. The influx reportedly began in small groups in mid-2023, escalating to over 370 Nepalese recruits passing through the Moscow selection point in October alone. However, recruitment declined by the end of the year following diplomatic protests from Nepal.
**China and Other Countries Involved**
Other countries that have contributed mercenaries include China (51), India (43), Serbia (8), Cuba (8), and Latvia (4). From former Soviet states, recruits include citizens of Tajikistan (86), Uzbekistan and Belarus (71 each), Kyrgyzstan (64), Kazakhstan (59), Turkmenistan (19), and Moldova (12).
**Concerns Over International Law**
Experts warn that formally recognizing Crimea as Russian would breach international law and potentially open the door to further global conflicts. The European Commission is exploring options to legally prohibit EU companies from signing new contracts for the supply of Russian fossil fuels.
**Ukraine’s Stance on Peace Efforts**
Ukrainian forces have confirmed the presence of foreign fighters on the battlefield, with two Chinese nationals being captured in Donetsk Oblast while fighting for Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that “several hundred” Chinese nationals are taking part in the war on Russia’s side.
**US and European Diplomats to Attend Peace Talks**
The US and European diplomats have agreed to meet with Russian officials, despite reports of disagreements over key points of the US peace plan. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed gratitude to the UK for its leadership and support in ending Russia’s full-scale invasion.
**Recent Developments**
A recent drone attack against the town of Marhanets in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast killed at least nine people and injured at least 30, while Russian attacks across Ukrainian regions killed at least four civilians and injured at least 88 over the past day.
