Nepali Mercenaries: Trapped in Russia’s War

In the midst of Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, an unexpected group has found themselves entangled in the horrors of war: Nepali mercenaries.

Drawn by promises of lucrative salaries and a chance for a better life, thousands of Nepali men have been recruited by Russia to join its military ranks. However, what they found on the front lines was far from the opportunities they were promised.

Ramchandra Khadka, a former Maoist rebel turned mercenary, returned to Nepal haunted by the brutal realities of war in Ukraine. Having experienced conflict in his homeland and later in Afghanistan, he believed joining the Russian military would provide financial stability. Yet, the grim conditions he encountered in the war-torn regions of Ukraine shattered any illusions he held about the venture.

Recruited hastily and deployed with minimal training, Khadka and his compatriots found themselves thrust into the heart of the conflict in eastern Ukraine. The promise of financial rewards quickly paled in comparison to the horrors they witnessed – bombed-out landscapes, relentless fighting, and the constant threat of death.

Their numbers, estimated to be as high as 15,000, underscore the desperation of many Nepalis seeking employment opportunities abroad.

With limited job prospects and a dire economic situation at home, the allure of a steady income proved too tempting to resist.

The compensation offered to Nepali mercenaries by Russia varies, but it typically includes a monthly salary of at least $2,000 USD. Additionally, bonuses may be provided based on factors such as length of service or specific achievements on the battlefield.

Some mercenaries have reported earning up to $4,000 USD per month, depending on their individual circumstances and the duration of their deployment. These financial incentives, coupled with promises of expedited Russian citizenship and other benefits, serve as powerful enticements for Nepalis seeking employment opportunities abroad.

However, the true cost of this endeavor often becomes apparent only when they find themselves thrust into the brutal realities of warfare in Ukraine, facing perilous conditions and uncertain futures.

For many families back in Nepal, the agony of not knowing the fate of their loved ones weighs heavily.

Januka Sunar, whose husband ventured to Russia in search of a better life, now grapples with the anguish of uncertainty.

Left to care for her children alone, she pleads for any information about her husband’s well-being, clinging to the hope of his safe return.

The stories of those who managed to escape paint a grim picture of exploitation and betrayal. Despite promises of adequate training and support, Nepali recruits were often ill-equipped and inadequately prepared for the realities of warfare.

Language barriers further compounded their struggles, leaving many unable to communicate effectively with Russian officers or navigate their surroundings safely.

Moreover, allegations of mistreatment and neglect by Russian commanders further highlight the exploitation faced by Nepali mercenaries.

Positioned at the front lines while Russian forces remained safely behind, they bore the brunt of the conflict’s violence with little regard for their well-being.

As calls for repatriation grow louder, Nepal grapples with the aftermath of this human tragedy.

The government’s ban on citizens traveling to Russia for work reflects a recognition of the dangers faced by Nepali migrants abroad. However, the plight of those already ensnared in Russia’s war remains uncertain.

In the face of political instability and rising unemployment, the allure of foreign employment continues to beckon many Nepalis. Yet, the harrowing experiences of those who ventured to Russia serve as a stark reminder of the risks involved.

As Ramchandra Khadka plans his departure from the conflict-ridden region, he reflects on his journey with a sense of resignation.

The dreams of prosperity that led him to Russia have been shattered by the harsh realities of war. Like many others, he seeks solace in the hope of a better future elsewhere, far from the violence that once consumed him.

The plight of Nepali mercenaries serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict and the vulnerability of those seeking refuge from economic hardship.

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Read also: Oleksandra Matviichuk: “Russia is ready for a long drawn out war in Ukraine”

“Russia is going to spend 40% of its budget on military purposes, and these are just open expenditures. Russia is carrying out a systemic transformation of the society in order to transfer it onto the military track.