Russia's desperate bid to replenish its military ranks through a new recruitment drive targeting students highlights the grim reality of the war in Ukraine. The campaign, which began early this year, aims to sustain Russia's war effort into a fifth year by enticing young people from universities and colleges into the drone forces. The promise of a more elite and technically advanced path through the war has lured many, but the reality is far more treacherous. The story of Valery Averin, a 23-year-old student who was killed in a mortar strike near Luhansk, underscores the fragility of these promises. Averin, who had never served in the army, was recruited into the drone forces despite having only studied drones for three months. His foster mother, Oksana Afanasyeva, expresses her shock and grief, questioning why her son was sent into a frontal assault. This raises a deeper question: How can Russia justify sending inexperienced students into the line of fire when their lives are at stake? The recruitment drive has been particularly targeted at students struggling academically or considering a break from their studies, offering them a one-year contract to serve in the 'unmanned systems troops'. The pitch is carefully designed, promising large payments, valuable technical skills, and the opportunity to return to their studies. However, the reality is far more grim. At least 920 Russian drone operators have been killed since the start of the full-scale invasion, and the death toll among students like Averin is rising. The defense ministry's claim that drone operators are safer than other combat roles is being challenged as they become high-value targets in this war. The pressure to sign up is mounting, with some students being targeted if they are on the verge of expulsion or considering academic leave. The former adviser to the rector of Far Eastern Federal University's admission of a quota to send 32 students to the war in February further highlights the pressure on institutions. Russia's focus on students shows how the war is moving deeper into civilian institutions, from universities and colleges to vocational schools. Young men are offered money, status, and the promise of a short, specialist path through the war, but the reality is a deadly game of chance. The death of Valery Averin lays bare how fragile and fleeting these promises can be, leaving a trail of grief and unanswered questions.
