Kathrine Frich
A disturbing video circulating online has sparked outrage and renewed scrutiny of Russia’s battlefield tactics in Ukraine.
The footage, shared by international media, appears to show extreme abuse and dehumanisation of foreign fighters sent to the front lines.
The images have intensified accusations that Moscow is relying on brutal methods and expendable manpower as the war grinds on.
Shocking footage
A video published by @sternenko on the social media X shows what appears to be a Russian soldier strapping an explosive device to the chest of an African mercenary fighting for the Russian army.
In the recording, the man, identified as Francis, is threatened at gunpoint.
Racist remarks can be heard in the background, along with comments describing the recruit as a “bottle opener” or “canned food.”
The Russian soldier is heard saying,
“He’ll be running right now, jumping through the forest,” before asking the visibly terrified man: “What the hell are you afraid of?”
Deadly tactic
According to the report, the footage illustrates a tactic in which mercenaries are sent on extremely dangerous missions, including being forced to trigger mines or explosives to clear paths through Ukrainian defences.
The men are allegedly used to enter Ukrainian-controlled areas and detonate explosives to open bunkers or corridors for advancing Russian troops.
The device shown in the video is believed to be a TM-62 mine, a powerful anti-tank explosive, The Sun reported.
Disposable fighters
Analysts say the video fits a broader pattern of Russia’s use of foreign mercenaries, particularly from Africa, in high-risk roles.
President Vladimir Putin is believed to be using operations and recruitment networks in Africa as a strategic “conveyor belt” to train and supply new forces for the war in Ukraine.
Critics describe the approach as part of what they call a “meat-grinder” strategy, relying on sheer numbers and expendable fighters rather than protecting troops.
Growing condemnation
The footage has prompted renewed condemnation of Russia’s conduct in the war and raised questions about potential war crimes.
Moscow has not commented on the video, and its authenticity has not been independently verified.
However, similar allegations about the treatment of mercenaries and foreign recruits have surfaced repeatedly since the invasion began.
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