Ukraine’s Intelligence Extracts Prisoners from Russian Army: Foreign Fighter Describes a 'One-Way Ticket'.

Rescue Operation for Captured Soldiers

According to Espreso.tv: The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, in coordination with the 'I Want to Live' project, carried out a successful evacuation of soldiers who had been held captive within the Russian armed forces. During the mission, a prisoner from Tajikistan provided insights into the conditions of service in the Russian military. He explained that he signed a contract with the Russian army under the threat of deportation, highlighting the difficult circumstances that force foreigners into the ranks of Russia’s military.

Evacuation Process and Outcomes

The evacuation operation was executed by Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate and the Third Army Corps. To ensure the mission’s success, the 66th Separate Mechanized Brigade provided support throughout the process. The prisoner also detailed the training of foreign volunteers, which lasts about a week in Russia, followed by an additional 12 days at a training ground—evidence of a systematic effort to integrate foreigners into the military.

Notably, in April 2023, Ukraine conducted an operation to reclaim occupied positions without deploying infantry, underscoring the growing effectiveness of its military tactics. The rescued prisoner urged others not to join the war, stating: 'This is a one-way ticket. Go home, work, and protect your life. Don’t go to this senseless war.'

His warning highlights the dangers and futility of foreigners participating in the conflict.

This evacuation effort reflects improving coordination between Ukrainian military agencies and humanitarian initiatives. The intelligence gathered from the prisoner underscores the serious issue of foreign recruitment into the Russian army—a matter with implications not only for Ukraine but for the international community monitoring the conflict. The prisoner’s appeal to other foreigners to avoid the war could serve as a critical message for those considering fighting on Russia’s side.