Russia Accused of Enlisting Laos in Ukraine War Under Humanitarian Pretense

Reports indicate that Russia is attempting to involve Laos in its war against Ukraine, presenting it as a humanitarian effort. Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) alleges that the Kremlin intends to deploy Laotian troops specializing in military engineering.

The HUR believes these soldiers will be utilized in demining operations within the Kursk Oblast region of Russia. This would free up Russian troops for redeployment to other active fronts. Last year, Ukraine briefly held territory in Kursk, but has since lost ground to Russian forces. The HUR stated that Russia is using humanitarian aid as a cover to legitimize the presence of foreign military forces, effectively using them to fight against Ukraine.

Ukraine has also seen foreign fighters join its ranks, with casualties and captures reported from countries including Britain, the United States, and Australia. Laos, a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia, maintains close relationships with both Moscow and Beijing. Despite these ties, Laos receives significant financial aid from the United Kingdom, as well as participating in broader regional aid programs. The country is slated to receive substantial aid in the coming financial year, though the impact of potential troop deployment in support of Russia remains uncertain. Despite its communist government and close ties to Russia, Laos remains a popular destination for Western tourists.