On 7 December 2023, BBC's Russian-language editorial unit reported that Russia is coercing migrants near the Finnish border into becoming mercenaries for the war in Ukraine. Sources include a Somali migrant who described recruitment near border crossings and transportation to military camps for combat training in Russia and Belarus. Finnish officials acknowledge this suspicious activity near their border. The reported recruitment aims to supplement Russia's military forces amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This tactic aligns with Russia's historical use of foreign mercenaries such as Wagner Group fighters. While Russian authorities officially deny direct mobilization of foreign fighters, recruitment by third parties continues. This development highlights Russia's reliance on proxy forces and mercenary groups to sustain its military operations in Ukraine.

On 7 December 2023, BBC's Russian-language editorial unit reported that Russia is coercing migrants near the Finnish border into becoming mercenaries for the war in Ukraine. Sources include a Somali migrant who described recruitment near border crossings and transportation to military camps for combat training in Russia and Belarus. Finnish officials acknowledge this suspicious activity near their border. The reported recruitment aims to supplement Russia's military forces amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This tactic aligns with Russia's historical use of foreign mercenaries such as Wagner Group fighters. While Russian authorities officially deny direct mobilization of foreign fighters, recruitment by third parties continues. This development highlights Russia's reliance on proxy forces and mercenary groups to sustain its military operations in Ukraine.