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Ukrainian Intel: 20,000 Cubans Recruited as Russian Mercenaries

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian intelligence claims Russia has recruited over 20,000 Cuban citizens as mercenaries for the war in Ukraine.
Andriy Yusov from Ukraine's military intelligence identifies Cuba as a key source for these recruits.
Cuban-American congresswoman María Elvira Salazar condemned the Cuban regime for exploiting young Cubans.
Many recruits reportedly faced deception and abuse, with over 600 Cubans currently unaccounted for.
The Cuban government denies involvement but admits to investigating recruitment networks.

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Story summary

Ukrainian intelligence claims Russia has recruited over 20,000 Cuban citizens as mercenaries for the war in Ukraine.
Andriy Yusov from Ukraine's military intelligence identifies Cuba as a key source for these recruits.
Cuban-American congresswoman María Elvira Salazar condemned the Cuban regime for exploiting young Cubans.
Many recruits reportedly faced deception and abuse, with over 600 Cubans currently unaccounted for.
The Cuban government denies involvement but admits to investigating recruitment networks.