'They put us all in front': Nepalese men recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine

FOCUS © FRANCE 24

Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, hundreds of Nepalese men – many with no military experience – have been enlisted by Russian recruiters. President Vladimir Putin has publicly promised citizenship and a high salary to those who sign up to fight for Russia. This has led to a massive recruitment campaign, deemed illegal by the Nepalese government. So far, at least 33 Nepalese soldiers have lost their lives on the front line, but the true number could be significantly higher. FRANCE 24's Nejma Bentrad, Nabeel Ahmed, Rojita Adhikari and Khansa Juned report.