In a desperate bid to bolster its forces in Ukraine, Russia has reportedly recruited hundreds of Yemeni mercenaries under false promises of high salaries and safe jobs. Many recruits claim they were tricked into signing contracts they couldn’t read and were later forced to the frontlines with little training, exposing a grim new chapter in Vladimir Putin’s war strategy.
Tricked and Press-Ganged
Yemeni recruits revealed to the Financial Times that they were lured by promises of lucrative work in fields like engineering or manufacturing. Upon arrival in Russia, however, the reality was starkly different:
- Threats and Coercion: Recruits described being threatened at gunpoint to sign contracts before being transported to Ukraine.
- Deployment to Combat Zones: Many were given Russian military uniforms and sent to the frontlines with minimal preparation.
- Broken Promises: One recruit said he only sought enough money to complete his education but found himself in the middle of intense bombardments in Ukraine.
Yemenis in Russia’s Recruitment Web
The recruitment operation appears to be facilitated by a company linked to Yemeni Houthi politician Abdulwali Abdo Hassan al-Jabri. Contracts seen by the Financial Times point to Omani connections, with recruits claiming they were signed up under duress.
- Houthi-Russian Ties: The Houthis, backed by Iran, reportedly play a key role in channeling Yemeni fighters to Russia.
- Wider Context: This recruitment aligns with broader cooperation between Russia and Iranian-linked forces, including weapons and intelligence exchanges.
The Role of Hybrid Warfare
Russia’s mercenary strategy reflects a broader approach to asymmetrical conflict:
- Avoiding Mobilization: Moscow seeks to sidestep domestic resistance to a new military draft by turning to foreign fighters.
- Global Recruitment: In addition to Yemeni mercenaries, Russia has reportedly enlisted 12,000 North Korean troops and fighters from India and Nepal.
A Dangerous Deal
Western intelligence sources warn that this Yemeni-Russian arrangement could destabilize the Middle East.
- Weapon Transfers: Reports suggest Russia may arm the Houthis with advanced Yakhont missiles, increasing threats to international shipping in the Red Sea.
- Strategic Destabilization: By supporting the Houthis, Russia aims to undermine Western allies in the region and increase pressure on the U.S.
Edmund Fitton-Brown, former UK ambassador to Yemen, described the situation as “very concerning.” He warned that any significant upgrade in Houthi capabilities could provoke military responses from Israel, further escalating tensions.
Human Toll
The recruits endure harrowing conditions on the battlefield:
- No Rest or Relief: Fighters face continuous bombardment with no breaks, driving some to extreme measures, including attempts at self-harm.
- Exploitation and Deception: Many say they were duped into service, with some unable to fully understand the contracts they signed.