Families report compatriots were promised jobs in Moscow but sent to combat zones in Ukraine. At least eight Peruvians have died.
12:16 AM
More than 120 Peruvian citizens were recruited through false job promises to work in Russia but were instead sent to combat zones in the war with Ukraine, according to denunciations filed by families on April 23.
The men accepted what they believed were administrative or technical positions in Moscow, unaware they would be incorporated into military operations. Upon arrival in Russian territory, the terms of employment changed drastically. Many were transferred directly to front-line combat after only days of training, families said.
At least eight Peruvians have died in the conflict, according to reports. Some recruits have managed to maintain contact with relatives, describing conditions of extreme risk and hardship. Audio messages sent by the Peruvians themselves document their critical situation, with individuals describing inadequate food and physical abuse.
One wife reported that her husband had not eaten and had been beaten, stating he was captured under false pretenses of employment and now suffers abuse in the war in Russia.
Pocho Wilson Pinto Peña, a retired Peruvian military officer, broke his silence on April 27 regarding the recruitment allegations. In an exclusive interview with the program La Calle No Calla on Panamericana Televisión, Pinto Peña denied deceiving former Peruvian military personnel. He stated that he only shared information with former colleagues interested in working in Russia and that the individuals he referred to were fully aware of the service conditions.
According to Pinto Peña's account, most of those recruited were retired military personnel with prior experience in conflict zones. He detailed that applicants undergo medical evaluations, physical assessments, and training before signing any contract. He also indicated that recruits receive an initial bonus and monthly remuneration, in addition to housing, food, and internet coverage.
Families have called for urgent intervention from Peruvian authorities to address the situation and locate their missing relatives.
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