Russia is actively recruiting foreign fighters, including American citizens, for its war in Ukraine, often targeting individuals vulnerable due to financial hardship, past legal troubles, or ideological grievances. At least 18 U.S. men have been enlisted, with several reportedly killed on the front lines after being lured by financial bonuses, according to reports.
These recruits are frequently sent to the front lines, described as a "meatgrinder," where they face high casualty rates. Russian forces have suffered significant losses since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, leading to an aggressive recruitment drive for foreigners. Agents globally utilize social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Telegram to target potential recruits, promising significant financial compensation.
Recruits are typically offered a signing bonus of approximately $26,000 and a monthly salary of $2,000. The agents recruiting them reportedly earn $24,000 per recruit, plus a portion of their salary.
One notable case is that of Seth William Baker, a former U.S. Marine from Gilbert, Arizona. Baker, who served as a bulk fuel specialist, was killed on the front lines just three months after enlisting. He reportedly stated in a video recorded from a Russian bunker that a key factor in his decision to join was his discharge from the U.S. military following his refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine, which had become mandatory. Baker expressed disillusionment with perceived hypocrisy regarding freedom in America.
Ukrainian security officials estimate that nearly 29,000 foreigners from 135 countries are fighting for Russia, though they believe the actual number is higher. Many are reportedly deceived online.
Another American recruit, Wilmer Puello-Mota, a former U.S. Air Force member, fled the United States while facing child pornography charges. He signed a mercenary contract in April 2024 and was featured in Russian propaganda videos. Puello-Mota has reportedly suffered shrapnel wounds to his leg.
The most high-profile case involves Michael Gloss, 21, the son of a high-ranking CIA official. Gloss, who had reportedly been struggling with mental health issues, died in April 2024 from blood loss during an artillery barrage in Donetsk. His father stated that Gloss was attempting to assist a wounded Russian soldier at the time of his death.
Derek Huffman, 47, is another American who joined Russian forces, citing a desire to escape what he described as LGBTQ "indoctrination" in the U.S. and seeking Russian citizenship for his family. His wife expressed concern that he felt like he was being "thrown to the wolves." However, Russian military contracts automatically extend until the end of the "special military operation," according to a 2022 decree.
According to Vitaliy Matvienko, who heads a Ukrainian state project on Russian surrenders, Americans fighting for Russia are often exploited for propaganda purposes. "When an American suddenly ends up fighting on Russia’s side, it becomes an almost sacred event for Russian propaganda," Matvienko said. "Their opinions are presented as extremely important. They are invited onto television... and presented as proof that ‘ordinary Americans support Russia.'"
However, the reality for foreign fighters is often grim. Reports indicate they suffer physical and racist abuse from Russian soldiers, are frequently sent on dangerous "meat assaults," and have a significant portion of their salaries withheld for unit expenses. Refusal to comply can lead to beatings or threats of execution.