In the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, mercenaries from Syria, Egypt, Iraq, and Central Asia have become an integral part of Russia’s military strategy. These fighters are often deployed to the most perilous frontlines, including the heavily contested regions near Bakhmut and Soledar in Donetsk Oblast. Exclusive information from the Czech-Slovak Institute of Oriental Studies reveals the deaths of several Syrian and Egyptian fighters during battles at the Soledar front in 2023. This tragic reality highlights the complex, global dimension of the conflict and the recruitment of foreign fighters into Russia’s ranks.