Lauge Risom Koch 
A Vietnamese prisoner of war captured in Ukraine has urged others not to join Russia’s war effort, describing violence, fear and despair among foreign recruits.
A Vietnamese man captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine has issued a plea to others not to travel abroad to take part in war.
In an interview from captivity, he described fear, violence and despair among foreign recruits sent to the front lines.
Captured recruit
According to United24, the man is believed to be the first Vietnamese prisoner of war captured by Ukrainian forces during the conflict.
Speaking from an undisclosed location, he claimed foreign recruits were treated as expendable by Russian forces.
“They force you to do everything. If you don’t listen, they beat you. If you don’t obey, they’re ready to kill you,” he said.
The prisoner told reporters he had never previously handled a weapon before being sent into combat.
Frontline trauma
In the interview with United24, the man described chaos and fear among soldiers deployed to the battlefield.
He said one of the men travelling with him died by suicide after being abandoned near the front.
“He pulled out a gun and shot himself on the spot. I couldn’t stop him,” the prisoner said.
“They don’t want to live anymore. They are very young.”
Treatment by Russians
The captured fighter claimed Russian troops responded violently when recruits failed to follow orders.
According to United24, he described feeling betrayed and dehumanised during his time with Russian forces.
“It’s the height of disappointment. The height of distrust. They force you to do everything. If you don’t listen, they beat you,” he said.
Message to Vietnam
The prisoner ended the interview with an appeal directed at people in Vietnam.
“Listen to me, everyone: Don’t go to war zones!” he said.
“Go to places where there is peace, compassion. Go to places of suffering and loss only to defend and help them.”
“Don’t take part in invasions and don’t go to other countries to harm them.”
Sources: United24
