How Russia recruits Belarusians for war in Ukraine: Methods and consequences

Russia has long regarded Belarus as a convenient reserve for topping up its manpower in the war against Ukraine, especially after suffering heavy losses at the front. Minsk’s economic dependence, the political vulnerability of Aliaksandr Lukashenka's regime and the legal uncertainty around the Union State create conditions in which the Kremlin can act with considerable freedom. In the Belarusian corner of the internet, in recent months a large number of adverts offering Belarusians the chance to sign a contract with the Russian army, have appeared. They are circulated everywhere – in Telegram channels, in Viber chats and in local community pages where people discuss everyday issues.