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The New York Times: Young Nepali men are joining the ranks of both sides in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, mostly out of desperation to find work. Sandeep Thapaliya, a former laboratory technician, is one such man who, unable to find work in Nepal, enlisted in the Russian army. He saw it as an opportunity for a steady income, even though it brought him thousands of kilometers into a conflict zone. Less than a month after his enlistment, he fell silent, and it was later determined that he had died. Most of these Nepalis fought for Russia, lured by promises of jobs and quick citizenship. A smaller group joined Ukraine’s Foreign Legion. This has raised concerns in Nepal that its citizens may be fighting against each other in a foreign confrontation. Nepali officials warn their citizens to stay away, but believe they are powerless to prevent Russia from recruiting them. Nepal has tried to maintain a neutral stance, condemning Russia’s actions at the UN but not joining economic sanctions. With rising unemployment and limited opportunities at home, Nepali youth are easily attracted by the prospect of working abroad, even if it involves fighting on foreign soil. Families remaining in the country live in distress, feeling anxious for the safety of their loved ones.
The entire article can be read at the link https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/20/world/asia/ukraine-russia-nepal.html
