Russia launches active mercenary recruitment in Iran - Center for Countering Disinformation

In a number of cities in Iran, leaflets have appeared en masse offering to join the army of the aggressor country russia for money: USD 20,000 "signing-on fee" and about USD 2,000 monthly. The ads lead to a Telegram channel that was created in November 2025, where recruitment is carried out in several languages. The recruiter, who was interviewed by journalists, directly stated that the campaign is coordinated by the russian side in Iran. It was reported by the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.

Despite attempts by the russian embassy in Iran to deny involvement, this is reportedly a typical element of the russian federation's systemic recruitment network, which has been looking for mercenaries in poor and crisis countries for many years. The Center for Countering Disinformation added that Iran is one of the most vulnerable targets due to the economic situation, high unemployment and the large number of Afghan refugees who are often targeted by such schemes.

Russian federation recruits mercenaries in Iran. Collage: Center for Countering Disinformation

"Recruitment in Iran is not a separate episode, but part of a broader Russian strategy to compensate for huge losses and prepare new offensive actions. According to intelligence estimates, Russia has already recruited at least 18,000 foreigners from 128 countries, often through deception, pressure or financial exploitation," the Center for Countering Disinformation said.

According to the Center for Countering Disinformation, russia is stepping up its propaganda in India.

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