A court in Uzbekistan’s Andijan region has sentenced Furqatbek Khasanov to seven years and one month in prison for attempting to recruit fellow citizens to participate in Russia’s “special military operation” (SMO) in Ukraine, according to Kun.uz, which cited materials from the criminal case.
Khasanov was reportedly acting in coordination with a Russian national who introduced himself as “Dmitry Robertovich.” According to his own testimony, Khasanov met the man a few years ago while working at a toothpaste factory in Russia. In December 2023, “Dmitry Robertovich” offered him a position in the conflict zone as a baker or construction worker. Khasanov declined, citing a deportation order that prevented his return to Russia. Nevertheless, he agreed to help recruit others to join the effort. The Russian contact promised to pay between $400 and $1,000 for each person recruited.
Back in Uzbekistan, Khasanov worked as a taxi driver. During rides, he allegedly spoke to passengers about the advantages of serving in the Russian military, claiming the roles did not involve front-line combat but rather duties like guarding or cleaning facilities. He promised a monthly salary of $2,500–$3,000 and a fast-track to Russian citizenship.
Some passengers reportedly expressed interest. In one case, Khasanov purchased a plane ticket to Russia for a prospective recruit, but the two were stopped at Fergana Airport and detained.
At trial, Khasanov expressed remorse, saying he had not realized that his actions constituted a crime.
He was ultimately convicted under Article 25 (“Preparation and Attempt to Commit a Crime”) and Part 2 of Article 154 (“Mercenarism”) of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code. He was sentenced to seven years and one month in a penal colony.
