UK Sanctions Russian Trafficker Over Nigerian Fighters

The UK has sanctioned Russian national Alexandrovna Polina Azarnykh for Azarnykh human trafficking, recruiting Nigerians and others into Moscow’s forces in Ukraine through deceptive practices

The United Kingdom government, Russian national Alexandrovna Polina Azarnykh, and affected foreign recruits confronted the consequences of alleged exploitation in London on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as details emerged of UK sanctions imposed on the woman accused of operating a human trafficking network that lured Nigerians and other foreigners to fight for Russia in Ukraine.

Alexandrovna Polina Azarnykh, born on March 29, 1985 and a former teacher, was sanctioned on May 5 under the Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons Sanctions Regulations 2025.

She faces a travel ban, asset freeze, and director disqualification for facilitating the movement of individuals from countries including Nigeria, Egypt, Syria, and Yemen through Russia to join Moscow’s military efforts.

A BBC investigation in January highlighted how Azarnykh allegedly used a Telegram channel with over 21,000 subscribers to recruit young men, often promising non-combat roles, Russian citizenship, and good salaries while concealing the realities of frontline fighting. Some recruits claimed they were misled, coerced, or threatened when attempting to withdraw.

This case forms part of Russia’s broader recruitment drive since 2022, which international reports estimate has drawn around 27,000 foreign nationals from over 130 countries, many undocumented migrants or students.

Human rights organisations have described the practice as predatory, with recruits frequently placed in the most dangerous positions.

The UK government stated that Azarnykh’s activities, backed by the Russian state, aimed to destabilise Ukraine amid its war of aggression.

The sanctions reflect growing international efforts to disrupt networks exploiting vulnerable individuals in conflict zones.

While some recruits may have been aware of the risks, many families have reported loved ones killed or missing.

The developments powerfully highlight the human cost of deception and the desperation that drives people into such perilous situations, even as Russia continues its military campaign.