A recent interview published by Ukrainian media platform United24 Media has sent shockwaves through international diplomatic circles, featuring Arash Darbendi, a 34-year-old Iranian citizen, who was captured by the Armed Forces of Ukraine while fighting for the Russian army.
From photographer to foot soldier
Darbandi, a photographer from Ahvaz in southern Iran, traveled to Saint Petersburg in December 2023 on a tourist visa. Seeking a better livelihood, he worked as a street photographer on the city’s famous Nevsky Prospect, earning a modest living of 10,000 to 15,000 rubles per day.
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His life took a drastic turn in early February 2025. Following a confrontation with local police – reportedly while under the influence of alcohol – Darbandi was detained and handed over to a military garrison. According to his testimony, the Russian authorities presented him with a grim ultimatum: Serve three to five years in a Russian prison for his legal infractions, or sign a one-year military contract to fight in Ukraine.
Despite his protests and lack of military experience, Darbandi was forced to choose the latter, hoping he might eventually find an opportunity to desert once he reached the front.
Media reaction and public outcry
The story gained significant traction after being analyzed by the YouTube channel “Free Iran.” Shortly after, mainstream Iranian media outlets, which usually maintain a cautious tone regarding the war, began covering the case extensively.
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The respected Iranian portal Asr-Iran published a detailed feature titled: “The First Iranian Prisoner in the Ukraine War: He Fought for the Russians.” The coverage suggests a growing concern within Iran regarding the safety and treatment of its citizens living in Russia.
Tehran breaks silence
The Iranian government has officially acknowledged the situation. During a press conference on Dec. 30. – government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani confirmed that the fate of the captured photographer is now a priority for the state.
“The matter is under the control of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Mohajerani stated. “We have already established contact with both Ukraine and Russia to clarify the circumstances of his capture and to discuss a possible release.”
Darbandi’s case highlights a broader, controversial trend in the Russian military’s recruitment strategy. Over the past year, reports have surfaced of citizens from India, Nepal, and several African nations being lured to Russia with promises of high-paying jobs, only to be coerced into front-line combat through visa threats or legal pressure.
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