Non-Russian Soldiers in the Ranks: A Look at the Ethnic Diversity of the Russian Army

Reports from the front lines of the war in Ukraine often highlight the diverse ethnic makeup of the Russian military. A recent TikTok video shows an interview with several soldiers who identify themselves as Yakuts, Buryats, Chechens, and others, emphasizing their non-Russian origins. "We are not Russians," one soldier states in the video. This observation underscores the complex dynamics of the conflict and raises questions about the reliance on non-Russian soldiers in the Russian army. The video's authenticity cannot be independently verified, but it reflects a broader narrative of ethnic tensions and conscription practices within Russia's military.