Russia using Houthi rebels from Yemen as cannon fodder in Ukraine

moscow - Russian forces have reportedly recruited hundreds of Yemeni fighters, promising high salaries and Russian citizenship, to fight in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is said to be using Houthi rebels from Yemen as cannon fodder in Ukraine, following the recruitment of North Korean soldiers. According to the Financial Times, Russian forces have recruited several hundred Yemenis, some of whom were pressured into joining. They were promised high salaries and Russian citizenship.

One recruit, Nabil, revealed that he was part of a group of around 200 Yemeni fighters flown to Russia in September. Many of them lacked formal military training but had battlefield experience in Yemen. Most recruits claim they were deceived into signing unreadable contracts and were misled about their roles.

Another recruit, Abdullah, shared his experience of being forcibly taken to Russia, given false promises, and then sent to the Ukrainian border for military training. The reality turned out to be far from what was initially presented, with many of Abdullah's comrades perishing on the frontlines within two months.

This recruitment of Yemeni fighters highlights Russia's strengthening ties with Iran, who has long supported the Houthi rebels. The collaboration has raised concerns, especially as it may involve supplying weapons to the rebels to target Western ships in the Red Sea.

America's special envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, confirmed the cooperation between Russia and the Houthis. Meanwhile, protests have emerged in Yemen against the recruitment of fighters, with efforts to repatriate some disillusioned individuals.