Sex Workers in Russia Face Violence from Returning Soldiers

War changes many parts of society in ways most people do not see. The battlefields are obvious, but the consequences reach far into everyday life.

In Russia, even the underground sex industry in St. Petersburg has felt the impact of the war in Ukraine.

Women working in illegal brothels describe how soldiers returning from the front have shaped their lives in dangerous and disturbing ways.

They Showed Frightening Behavior

Two sex workers shared their stories with local reporters via Bumaga. They explained how the war has changed both their work and their safety.

Veronika, a 35-year-old single mother, said that soldiers once made up nearly half of her clients. Many had money from their service and spent it quickly. Some came severely wounded.

One man without arms or legs spent millions of rubles and later borrowed money for a train ticket. Over time, the number of veterans decreased, but their behavior grew more frightening.

She recalled soldiers bragging about killing Ukrainians and threatening women with knives and guns. She and her colleagues often had to run for their lives.

Abuse and Violence

Violence became common. One man chased a woman through an apartment screaming, “I’m used to killing.”

Another fired a gun inside a brothel. Veronika said most brothels now turn veterans away, fearing for their safety.

She herself took a course in cosmetology and hopes to leave the industry before more soldiers return home from the war.

They Are Traumatized

Natalia, also in her 30s, has been in the trade for more than a decade. She said that ten years ago, the threats came from criminals.

Now they come from soldiers. Many of them are unstable, addicted to alcohol or drugs, and carry their trauma into civilian life.

She believes they spend their earnings not on families or the future, but on sex, drugs, and alcohol. She said she avoids them whenever possible, fearing for her life.

Brothels Are Being Shut Down

Both women said police raids are also shutting down brothels. Some are burned down, while others survive with protection.

Despite this, sex work continues in St. Petersburg. Veronika and Natalia both hope to leave soon.

Yet they fear what will happen when more veterans return, bringing their war scars into civilian streets and bedrooms.

This article is made and published by Anna Hartz, which may have used AI in the preparation