Iraq to curb recruitment of nationals into Russian army
Committee adopts legal measures against foreign military enlistment as authorities cite thousands attracted by pay and citizenship offers
BAGHDAD, Iraq (MNTV) –– Iraq has begun taking steps to prevent its citizens from joining the Russian military, as Moscow continues its ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Iraqi government formed a special committee last month to address the issue, with officials saying more than 5,000 Iraqis have reportedly enlisted to fight for Russia, often motivated by promises of high salaries or potential citizenship.
At a meeting chaired by National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji, the committee approved a set of measures aimed at curbing recruitment networks and financing channels linked to foreign military enlistment.
According to a statement released by al-Araji, the committee decided to apply provisions of the Iraqi penal code to individuals who join foreign armed forces and to hold facilitators accountable.
The recommendations were unanimously endorsed and submitted to the prime minister for final approval.
Russia’s war with Ukraine began in 2014 following Moscow’s annexation of Crimea and support for separatist forces in eastern Ukraine. The conflict escalated into a full-scale invasion in February 2022, marking the largest war in Europe since World War II.
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