In a desperate bid to bolster its forces in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia has been actively recruiting Cuban nationals, offering them high pay and passports. The saga began in September and October of 2023 when passport details of over 200 Cubans allegedly enlisted in the Russian military were leaked online by pro-Ukrainian platform InformNapalm.

These details were reportedly obtained through hacking emails of a Russian military recruitment officer based in Tula, south of Moscow.

A BBC investigation revealed that 31 individuals among those whose passport details were leaked had social media profiles indicating ties to Russia or the Russian army. Some had posted pictures of themselves in Russian military attire or at locations with distinctly Russian features.

Moreover, many started posting Russia-related content around August 2023, suggesting their potential arrival time in the country.

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The Kremlin’s recruitment of foreigners, including Cubans, into the Russian army serves multiple purposes. Notably, it helps offset the significant losses Russia has suffered in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, which has claimed tens of thousands of Russian troops’ lives.

Russia has found a way to circumvent the issues that arise when forcing its own citizens into military service, a strategy that led to mass exodus during a partial mobilisation in 2022.

For Cubans, the appeal of joining the Russian army is multifaceted. The historical ties between Russia and Cuba, which date back to the Cold War era, make recruitment easier.

The prospect of lucrative army contracts, with monthly payments exceeding £1,600 ($2,000), is an attractive proposition for Cuban men dealing with economic struggles at home, where the average monthly wage is less than £28 ($35).

In response to queries about Cuban nationals’ involvement in the Ukraine conflict, Cuban authorities have given conflicting statements.

Initially acknowledging the arrest of individuals involved in recruitment activities, Cuban officials later showed leniency towards citizens choosing to legally participate in operations alongside the Russian army.

On the other hand, Ukrainian authorities have reported an increase in foreign fighters, including Cubans, joining Russian forces, with many captured on the battlefield.

Despite their involvement, these individuals are often poorly prepared for combat, leading to tragically short life spans on the front lines.