Scandal Unfolds: Russian Soldiers Targeted by Scammers upon Return from Ukraine

Despite promises of heroism and financial rewards from President Putin, numerous Russian soldiers are falling victim to scams and thefts perpetrated by officials and civilians alike. Reports indicate cases of police officers demanding bribes and scamming returning servicemen, illustrating a troubling betrayal of trust.

Russian soldiers are facing alarming levels of exploitation upon their return from Ukraine, with many reportedly scammed and robbed of substantial sums intended as war pay. Investigative findings from the BBC unveil a grim reality starkly contrasting President Vladimir Putin's promises of a hero's welcome.

Since the commencement of the Ukraine invasion in February 2022, the Russian military has expanded significantly, fueled by financial incentives aimed at attracting recruits. For many, especially from impoverished regions of Russia, the allure of a potential earnings boost—up to 5.2 million roubles (£47,000) annually alongside additional compensation for injuries—has driven them to enlist despite the inherent risks, including fatality.

Take the case of 39-year-old Nikita Khursa, who joined the military with the hopes of securing better living conditions for his family. After sustaining injuries during combat, he returned home with expectations of using his earnings to purchase a flat. Yet, a drunken dispute with his wife led him to leave home, grabbing a bag filled with their savings. On his way to Rostov to buy an apartment, local traffic police flagged him down.

Instead of the expected warm reception, Khursa was met with extortion. The officers seized nearly 2.66 million roubles (£24,000) in cash, ignoring the government's claims to honor returning soldiers. The predatory actions of police were mirrored in other alarming scenarios, including taxi drivers overcharging soldiers, and recruitment center employees embezzling funds directly from soldiers’ accounts by exploiting their personal information.

In a further shocking development, some soldiers found themselves at the mercy of their own commanders, who demanded control of their salaries under threat of punishment. One soldier alleged that his senior officer ran off with a collection of bank cards belonging to missing servicemen, containing substantial funds.

Despite Khursa's attempts to report the officers who robbed him, the case never advanced in the judicial system, as those responsible quickly enlisted in the army, evading prosecution under newly established laws. For Khursa, the journey has taken a personal toll, contributing to the dissolution of his marriage and leaving him uncertain about the future: "Only the army saves you, puts a roof over your head," he lamented, reflecting the bleak choices many soldiers navigate in the wake of betrayal and hardship.