Russia has bolstered its occupation forces with alcoholics from drug rehabilitation clinics

The Russian military command is filling its ranks with individuals suffering from alcohol addiction, mental disorders, and physical disabilities. 

According to The Telegraph, citing testimony from a Russian serviceman, “black recruiters” are operating in Karelia, taking people from rehabilitation centers and stealing their bank cards and funds. According to the occupier, in his unit of 40 people, about 30 were found unfit for service due to health conditions or age.

The intensification of recruitment of vulnerable groups is linked to the fact that the Russian army’s losses in January 2026 exceeded the number of new recruits by 9,000 soldiers. According to the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, many men are forced to sign contracts while intoxicated, or their signatures are forged. Russia is also accused of forming separate units composed of individuals infected with HIV and hepatitis, who are required to wear special identifying armbands. Recruiters receive cash bonuses for every person sent to the front, regardless of their actual combat capability.