African Women Lured into Russian Drone Production: A Continuing Crisis

As of February 14, 2025, the Alabuga Start program continues to recruit young African women for what they claim are hospitality jobs in Russia. However, these women find themselves working in drone factories for military purposes. Despite some positive testimonials, many participants report poor working conditions, lower wages than promised, and feeling trapped. The program has expanded to include women from Asia and Latin America, raising concerns about labor exploitation and ethical implications in weapons production amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Source: Based on reports from Associated Press and Capital Ethiopia, February 2025.