Cubans Join Russian Forces in Ukraine Conflict

Hundreds of Cubans have left the island to fight for Russia in the war in Ukraine, enticed by promises of money and Russian citizenship from online recruiters. The economic crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by a drop in tourism and US sanctions, has made recruitment easier. However, the reality of war has disillusioned many recruits, who now want to return home. Cuban officials have declared their citizens fighting for Russia as illegal mercenaries, but conflicting statements have left the situation unclear. The recruitment of Cubans threatens Russia's relations with Cuba, a former Cold War ally.