Russia’s human war machine


Russian troops boarding a military aircraft in Grozny, Russia. — ©2025 The New York Times Company

RUSSIA’s war in Ukraine has become a grim exercise in endurance, grinding through waves of manpower as the Kremlin desperately seeks ways to maintain pressure on Ukrainian forces.

What began with professional soldiers has now expanded into a sprawling recruitment network targeting convicts, debtors and even suspects awaiting trial.

Get 30% off with our ads free Premium Plan!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Focus

Trump’s religious awakening
Thousands trapped in modern slavery
Ever-shifting odds of an asteroid strike
Left to starve after US cuts aid
AI sows seeds to sustain farms
Taliban’s gemstone gamble
Heist of the high-flyers
Crossing borders, seeking dreams
'Survivor's guilt' is real right now in LA
Rebel student life in Myanmar: Bombs, snakes and hungry cows

Others Also Read