Russia Coerces Yemeni Recruits to Fight in Ukraine

Yemeni men were promised jobs and citizenship but were forced into combat as part of Russia's reliance on foreign fighters.

Hundreds of Yemeni men were lured to Russia with promises of high-paying jobs and citizenship but were instead forced to fight in Ukraine.
Recruits were reportedly coerced into signing contracts they couldn't read, with some facing threats and intimidation upon arrival in Russia.
The recruitment effort involved Houthi-linked groups, highlighting growing ties between Russia and the Iran-backed Yemeni faction.
U.S. officials warn that Russia's collaboration with the Houthis includes discussions of advanced weapons transfers, potentially escalating threats in the Red Sea region.
This recruitment follows a broader Russian strategy of using foreign fighters, including from Nepal, India, and North Korea, to offset domestic mobilization challenges.