Thousands upon thousands of Iraqis reside in Ukraine

In the heart of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, thousands of Iraqi youths have found themselves entangled, seeking a better life or lured by promises of a "safe path" or work abroad.

Many of these young Iraqis, once abroad, find themselves trapped and war becomes the only way to survive for some. Reports suggest that over 5000 Iraqi citizens have ended up on the fronts of both Russia and Ukraine since the start of the conflict in 2022.

These individuals often attempt to sneak into Russia or Ukraine through Turkey, Belarus, or the Balkans. However, their journey is fraught with danger as they frequently find themselves stranded on smuggling routes.

Some of these Iraqis are serving in the Russian army under contracts, earning approximately $3000 a month. Conversely, over 3000 Iraqis have joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine as contractors, although there is no public evidence that they have fought directly on the frontlines as of September 2025.

The recruiters in Iraq promise a better life, but many Iraqis are being deceived. Once abroad, their requests to return home often go unanswered, leaving them stranded and vulnerable. Some have reportedly asked to be sent back home, claiming they were deceived, but their pleas remain unheard.

Unemployment in Iraq remains high, especially among university graduates, driving many to seek opportunities abroad. The Iraqi embassy in Moscow issued a warning, urging citizens not to participate in combat operations. Baghdad maintains official neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The families of these Iraqis fighting in the conflict often don't know their whereabouts and many disappear without a trace. This uncertainty adds to the already heavy burden of economic stagnation and political instability that Iraqis face.

Many Iraqis trying to join the Ukrainian forces get stuck in border zones, often facing hunger, cold, and even death. This tragic situation underscores the desperate circumstances that drive these young Iraqis to take such risks.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues, the plight of these Iraqi youth serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution.