Russian Soldiers Fall Victim to Scams and Corruption Upon Returning from Ukraine

Following their return from the Ukraine conflict, many Russian soldiers face cunning scams and outright theft of their military pay, often at the hands of police officers and government officials. Despite financial incentives designed to bolster the military, reports reveal how veterans like Nikita Khursa have been exploited rather than celebrated for their service.

Russian soldiers returning from the Ukraine war are facing an unfortunate reality filled with scams and theft, undermining President Vladimir Putin's assertions of a revered welcome for heroes. Investigations have uncovered instances where returning servicemen are being robbed of their earnings by both officials and opportunistic individuals.

Since February 2022, the Russian military has expanded significantly, with a focus on attracting volunteers through financial incentives. For some, the prospect of making substantial sums – up to 5.2 million roubles (£47,000) in the first year and more for injuries – presents a tantalizing opportunity, especially for individuals from impoverished regions.

Nikita Khursa, a 39-year-old welder from Rostov who enlisted to improve his family's financial situation, fell victim to such a scheme. After sustaining injuries, he envisioned using his bonus to secure an apartment with his wife, Oksana. However, following a domestic dispute fueled by alcohol, Khursa ended up on the road with cash in a plastic bag, only to be stopped by traffic police. Instead of being applauded for his service, he was extorted for nearly 2.66 million roubles (£24,000) under the threat of arrest.

This trend of exploitation has also surfaced among airport police in Moscow, who allegedly conspired with taxi drivers. Returning soldiers would find themselves overcharged for transport, and those who resisted faced intimidation. Reports indicate that these officers pilfered around 1.5 million roubles from returning troops.

In another shocking revelation, recruitment center employees were arrested for swindling soldiers out of over 11 million roubles by accessing recruits' salary accounts without their knowledge. This pattern of dishonesty permeates the military, where commanding officers are also accused of demanding soldiers' bank account details, only to exploit them further.

While Khursa reported his case to the authorities, justice eluded him as the two officers were merely reassigned to serve in the military, sidestepping prosecution due to a leniency law allowing them to fight instead of facing charges. Now awaiting a decision on whether he must return to combat despite his injuries, Khursa reflects on his fractured marriage and uncertain future.

In light of these troubling accounts, it is evident that the exploitation of returning soldiers adds a disturbing layer to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the larger narrative surrounding military service in Russia. Despite official assurances promoting respect for servicemen, the realities on the ground tell a far different story.