Unveiling Diversity in Russian Armed Forces: Wagner and Beyond

Checking the Russian armed forces, one might stumble upon an unexpected diversity. Entities like Wagner, known for its global recruitment, often bring to light the rich and complex ethnic landscape of Russia. The perception that Russia is a 'white country' is significantly challenged by the reality of its multiethnic population, a fact highlighted by organizations such as Wagner.

Did You Know?

While many envision Russia as a mainly Slavic nation, it is home to approximately 200 different ethnic groups. Among these are significant Turkic and Mongolic minorities, which adds a diverse layer to the Russian military landscape.

The Reality of Ethnic Diversity

As a geographically vast country, spanning both Europe and Asia, Russia's ethnic diversity is not confined to certain regions. Siberia, for instance, is a testament to Russia's complexity, featuring a blend of ethnicities that extend from European to Asian ones. This diversity is further amplified by the recruitment practices of organizations such as Wagner.

The Multiethnic Nature of Russia

For an outsider, Russia might seem predominantly Slavic, but a deeper look reveals a rich tapestry of ethnicities. According to the 2021 All-Russian Census, some of the notable ethnic groups present in Russia include:

Russian Cossacks Pomors Tatars (Kryashens, Mishars, Siberian Tatars, Astrakhan Tatars) Chechens (Chechens-Akkins) Bashkirs Chuvash Andian Avars, Didoi Tsez and other Ando-Tsez peoples, Archins Circassians and Armenians Ukrainians Dargins (Kaitags, Kubachins) Kazakhs Kumyks and Kabardians Inguh, Lezgins Ossetians (Digoron, Digorians, Iron, Ironians) Mordva (Mordva-Moksha, Mordva-Erzya) Yakuts Azerbaijanis and Buryats Mari (mountain, meadow-eastern) Udmurts Tajiks and 60 more nationalities

Each nationality brings its unique cultural, linguistic, and even physical traits. It is this diversity that contributes to the multifaceted identity of Russia and its armed forces.

Wagner and Its Recruitment Strategy

Groups like Wagner, a private military company, not only mirror but also leverage this diversity. Their international recruitment, spanning from Europe to Central Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, means that their ranks are diverse. For instance, while some soldiers might look distinctly Turkic or Mongolic, others might appear more Slavic, reflecting the wide range of ethnicities within the organization.

It's important to note that such diversity is not limited to Wagner. The Russian military itself also includes various ethnic groups, including the so-called 'Kadyrovists', which consists of ethnic Chechens and other Caucasus nationalities.

Myths and Misunderstandings

Not everyone is aware of Russia's ethnic diversity, leading to misconceptions. The term 'Russian' often connotes a Slavic identity, which can overshadow the presence of Turkic and Mongolic minorities. Similarly, there are concerns about the recruitment and treatment of minorities, both within Russian borders and in theatres of operation.

For example, some apprehensions exist regarding the treatment of certain ethnic groups both by Russia and by other nations involved in conflicts. However, it is critical to approach these issues with a nuanced understanding of the country's complex history and its multiethnic reality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perception of Russia as a 'white country' is a profound oversimplification. It is a land of profound ethnic diversity, where organizations like Wagner highlight the true face of Russia. Understanding this diversity is crucial for forging a more accurate and inclusive view of this vast and dynamic nation.