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<p>We are aware of media reports on Russia's recruitment of former Afghan forces,
possibly for their deployment as mercenary forces in the Ukraine conflict. As Russia
continues to experience battlefield setbacks in Ukraine, it has exposed the limitations
of using large numbers of inexperienced and poorly equipped conscripts. As a result
the Kremlin is increasingly prepared to deploy mercenary forces. We continue to work
closely with our international partners to counter Russian malign activity, including
its use of mercenaries, and respond to actions that undermine the rules based international
system.</p>
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