$26,000 to fight for Russia: How Moscow recruits Americans via TikTok and Telegram

File photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives for a wreath-laying ceremony surrounded by Russian military personnels Russia is increasingly turning to foreign recruits to replenish its forces fighting in Ukraine, with at least 18 Americans identified as having joined the Russian military, according to Ukrainian officials cited by the New York Post. US recruits are reportedly being offered a signing bonus of about $26,000, along with a monthly salary.The recruitment is being driven through a network of agents who use platforms including Facebook, TikTok and Telegram to find potential recruits. Ukrainian officials said recruiters can earn money for each person they bring in, with some reportedly receiving about $24,000 per recruit as well as a share of the recruit’s salary.The effort extends far beyond Americans. Ukrainian security officials have identified nearly 29,000 foreigners from 135 countries fighting for Russia, although the actual number could be higher. Amnesty International has separately documented deceptive and exploitative recruitment practices targeting foreign nationals, including promises of civilian jobs, high salaries, legal status or Russian citizenship.US...