Iraq is forming a special government commission to investigate and prevent its citizens from being recruited to fight for Russia in the war against Ukraine, following alerts from a Ukrainian military intelligence project.

The move was confirmed by Iraqi diplomats after discussions with officials from Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” project. The initiative, run by Ukraine’s Military Intelligence (HUR), operates a 24-hour hotline to facilitate the surrender of Russian personnel and has recently reported a rise in foreign nationals, including Iraqis, joining Russian military ranks.

Tarek Kazem, Iraq’s Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, stated that Baghdad is “alarmed” by reports of young Iraqis enlisting in the Russian army. He explained that the new commission will work in coordination with Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council to “curb recruitment efforts and address any associated legal violations.”

Kazem emphasized that Iraqi law imposes severe penalties for mercenary activities. “Under the country’s Criminal Code, involvement as a mercenary carries severe penalties that can extend to life imprisonment,” he said.

The diplomatic response also aligns with Iraq’s declared foreign policy. In an official statement, Iraqi officials reaffirmed the country’s commitment to “neutrality and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states,” principles embedded in the Iraqi Constitution.

The situation reflects a broader pattern of international recruitment by Russia. According to Oleh Ivashchenko, former head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service, December saw over 150 foreign nationals from 25 countries recruited into the Russian army, with another 200 in preparation to join.

Ivashchenko identified key motivations for enlistment, including financial incentives, fast-tracked Russian citizenship, and offers of amnesty for convicted criminals, which continue to draw foreigners despite significant legal and personal risks.