Russia throws foreigners into frontline attacks, Filipino mercenary killed in Donetsk
Illustrative photo: Russia recruits foreigners for the war against Ukraine (Getty Images)
A foreign mercenary from the Philippines who was fighting on the side of Russian occupation forces has been eliminated in Ukraine's Donetsk region, according to Ukrainian Defense Intelligence (HUR).
According to military intelligence, the bodies of destroyed occupiers included a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines, John Patrick. He was serving in the 9th assault company of the 3rd battalion of the 283rd regiment of the 144th motorized rifle division of Russia's 20th Guards Combined Arms Army.
HUR stated that the foreign mercenary was killed during a so-called "meat assault" near the village of Novoselivka in the Kramatorsk district, Donetsk region. He was carrying only a weapon, ammunition, and a piece of paper with his unit number and his commander's contact details. The occupier did not speak Russian.
Information obtained from seized electronic devices shows that the Filipino's basic training lasted just one week, after which he was sent to the front line without proper preparation. After being wounded, no evacuation was carried out.
John Patrick, a Filipino national, was serving in Russia's 20th Guards Combined Arms Army (Photo: t.me/DIUkraine)
John Patrick, a Filipino national, was serving in Russia's 20th Guards Combined Arms Army (Photo: t.me/DIUkraine)
John Patrick, a Filipino national, was serving in Russia's 20th Guards Combined Arms Army (Photo: t.me/DIUkraine)
HUR emphasizes that Russia systematically recruits foreigners and labor migrants into its armed forces through deception or coercion. They are promised rear-area service or threatened with problems with law enforcement.
Ukrainian intelligence warns foreign nationals against traveling to Russia or taking any form of employment there, especially illegal work, as it may end in forced participation in combat operations without training or any real chance of survival.
Russia uses foreign mercenaries on the front line
Fighters of Ukraine's 425th Separate Assault Regiment "Skala" captured two Colombian citizens in Pokrovsk who had been fighting on the side of Russian occupation forces.
Meanwhile, a Russian delegation visited North Korea to negotiate the recruitment of additional North Korean mercenaries for the war against Ukraine. According to preliminary information, Moscow expects to receive both soldiers and sappers from Kim Jong Un's regime.
Ukrainian intelligence has also released further evidence of war crimes committed by the Russian army. In an intercepted conversation, the commander of Colombian mercenaries fighting for Russia orders his subordinates to open fire on Ukraine's civilian population, including women and children.
Previously, it was also reported that citizens of South Africa were deceived into joining the Russian army and taking part in combat operations against Ukraine. Foreigners were forced to work in trenches in freezing conditions, left without water and proper food for extended periods, and made to hide from drone attacks.
