Ukrainian military intelligence revealed the alarming increase in the recruitment of Cuban citizens as mercenaries by the Russian army, as part of its strategy to strengthen troops in the war against Ukraine.
According to a report released by the intelligence project "I Want to Live" from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, more than 1,000 Cubans have already been identified as contracted fighters with the Armed Forces of Russia, as cited by the media News Ukraine.
Ukrainian authorities have confirmed that they have verified the names and personal details of 1,028 Cubans who signed contracts with the Russian army between 2023 and 2024.
However, it clarifies that preliminary figures suggest that up to 20,000 Cuban citizens may have been recruited, under false pretenses and pressured by the crisis on the island.
According to the report, these recruits do not act as informed volunteers, but are instead drawn in through a scheme that combines "bribes, deception, and coercion."
Many of them are promised civilian jobs in Russia, such as in warehouses, construction sites, or security, with salaries ranging from $2,000 to $2,500 per month, an exorbitant amount compared to the average income in Cuba, which is around $30 per month, the report highlights.
The contracts are written exclusively in Russian, making it difficult for the signatories to fully understand the commitments they are undertaking.
In 2023, Cuban authorities reported the arrest of 17 individuals accused of participating in recruitment networks for the Russian war. The charges included treason against the homeland, with penalties that could reach up to 30 years in prison or even the death penalty.
However, Ukrainian intelligence asserts that recruitment not only did not stop but has actually increased since then, expanding to include other nationalities such as Nepalese, Sri Lankans, and citizens from Central Asia, who also make up the core of Russia's foreign mercenaries.
In light of this situation, Kiev urged the regime in Havana to prevent the participation of Cuban citizens in the conflict and to halt the flow of fighters towards the Russian lines in Ukraine.
So far, the Cuban government has not issued any public statements regarding the new allegations.
Russia's use of mercenaries has intensified following increasing internal recruitment problems.
At the beginning of April, Ukraine also confirmed the capture of two Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces in the Donetsk region. According to Russian media, at least 51 Chinese soldiers have signed contracts with the Moscow army.
The Ukrainian report emphasizes that the use of foreign fighters not only presents legal and ethical challenges but also highlights Russia's wear and dependence on external human resources to sustain its military offensive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recruitment of Cuban Mercenaries by Russia
How is the recruitment of Cuban mercenaries for the war in Ukraine taking place?
The recruitment of Cubans as mercenaries for the war in Ukraine is carried out through deception and coercion. They are promised civilian jobs in Russia with attractive salaries, but upon arrival, they are sent to the front lines. Often, the contracts are in Russian, making it difficult to understand the terms.
How many Cubans have been recruited by the Russian army?
According to Ukrainian intelligence, more than 1,000 Cubans have been identified as fighters under contract with the Russian Armed Forces, although estimates suggest that as many as 20,000 could have been recruited.
What has been the response of the Cuban government to the recruitment of its citizens?
Although the Cuban government has arrested individuals accused of participating in recruitment networks, it has not issued clear statements regarding the increase in the recruitment of Cubans by Russia. Critics suggest that the regime may be aware of this, given its close relationship with Russia.
What risks do Cubans face when they are recruited as mercenaries in Russia?
Cuban recruits face significant risks, including being sent to the front lines without adequate preparation, serious injuries, and psychological issues. Moreover, many do not receive the promises of Russian citizenship that were made to them upon recruitment.
What role does the relationship between Cuba and Russia play in the context of mercenary recruitment?
The relationship between Cuba and Russia is complex and is based on economic and political dependence. Cuba relies on Russia for essential supplies like oil, which may explain the Cuban government's ambiguous stance on recruitment. This dependency has intensified in recent years, reflecting an ideological and strategic subordination.
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