$30,000 to Fight for Russia—Serbian Mercenaries Pose a Future Threat to the Balkans

A new generation of Serb nationalists is fighting for Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s forces in Ukraine while preparing for what analysts warn could be renewed conflict in the Balkans, The Telegraph reported on December 14.

Hundreds of Serb militants, including veterans of the 1990s Bosnian War, have travelled to Ukraine to fight alongside Russian troops, driven by the belief that “Mother Russia” will eventually help them reclaim territories such as Kosovo.

Using social media, they are recruiting young Serbs to join the war, with some offered upfront payments of about $29,000 and monthly salaries of roughly $3,200.

Western and regional officials fear that once these fighters return to Bosnia, they could fuel new paramilitary violence nearly 30 years after the Bosnian War ended, according to investigation.

One such fighter is Dario Ristic, a Serbian nationalist wounded in Ukraine while serving with a Russian unit known as the Bears from Perm. Known by the nickname “speedy,” Ristic carried out sniper and drone attacks in cities including Avdiivka and later returned to Bosnia, where he was arrested for joining a foreign paramilitary force and placed under house arrest.

According to The Telegraph, in a Telegram video filmed in Ukraine, Ristic appeared alongside another Serb fighter who said: “Once we’re done with these NATO fascists here, we’re coming back to regain our shrines and what is ours. Glory to God, glory to Mother Russia—to victory!”

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Despite legal restrictions, Ristic remains influential online, with more than 10,000 followers. Analysts warn that even a small number of such militants can destabilize fragile post-war societies.

“You don’t need many armed individuals to threaten the balance of peace,” said regional analyst Srecko Latal, as reported by The Telegraph.

The report also highlights the role of veteran fighters linked to Russian intelligence networks and the use of front companies to help recruits evade detection. Investigative journalist Nino Bilajac said he was offered about $29,000 upfront and nearly $3,200 per month to join Russia’s forces.

Earlier, Russia stepped up efforts to recruit mercenaries in Iran, Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation reported, saying leaflets offering paid service in the Russian army have appeared in several cities, promising $20,000 upfront and about $2,000 per month, with applicants directed to a multilingual Telegram channel launched in November 2025.

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