The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has expressed concern about the human impact of Russia's systematic targeting of energy infrastructure, the militarisation of education, and the recruitment of foreign nationals. The commission, an independent body mandated by the UN Human Rights Council, said it will present findings of its ongoing investigations in its report to the General Assembly's 81st session in October 2026.

Recruits lured by false job promises

The commission has focused on foreign nationals from a range of countries across different continents who ended up serving in the Russian army through deception. Agents and intermediaries lured them promising lucrative civilian jobs and facilitated their travel to Russia. Soon after arrival, they were compelled to sign contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defence. The vast majority did not understand Russian or the terms of these contracts and found themselves serving on the frontlines.

Casualties and accountability

Many among the recruits died shortly after reaching the frontlines, were reported missing, injured, or were taken prisoner by Ukrainian armed forces, while their families have been left to search from afar for information about their fate, with recruiting agents usually blocking their calls. The commission also said some foreigners present in Russia, including people serving prison sentences, were coerced by Russian authorities to fight in Ukraine. It reiterated the importance of judicial and non-judicial accountability measures, including multifaceted support for victims.