Brazilian captured by Russian forces reports deception over Ukraine job promise

Herik Ferreira Soares, a 23-year-old Brazilian from Castanhal, Pará, was captured by Russian military forces during the Ukraine war after being deceived by false promises of employment. In a video released on social media, Soares recounts traveling to Ukraine believing he would work in a support role away from combat, only to be sent directly to the front lines of intense fighting. He states that foreign fighters, including Brazilians, Colombians, Peruvians, and Argentinians, are treated as "disposable" and used to fill the needs of local troops.

In the emotional video footage recorded in Russian territory, Soares apologizes directly to his mother for ignoring her advice and returning to Ukraine after spending time in Brazil the previous year. He emphasizes that the financial compensation promised does not justify the dangers of war or the suffering inflicted on families. Soares appeals to other Brazilians not to enlist in the conflict seeking money, warning that false recruitment promises put lives at risk for inadequate compensation.

The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) confirmed on June 24, 2026, that it is monitoring Soares' case and that the Brazilian Embassy in Moscow is providing consular assistance and maintaining contact with his family while seeking additional information from local authorities. This incident reflects an ongoing pattern of recruitment targeting Brazilian citizens. In February 2026, the Itamaraty reported that at least 22 Brazilians had died and 44 were missing since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. The ministry has issued repeated warnings against Brazilians accepting military recruitment offers or job opportunities related to foreign armed conflicts, noting that enlisted individuals may face difficulties in leaving combat zones.