African women lured to Russia face exploitation and hardship

A new investigation reveals that young African women are being lured to Russia under false promises of better lives through the "Alabuga Start" program. Instead of opportunities, they face harsh labor conditions, racism, and even prostitution in a closed facility. The Alabuga Special Economic Zone, located 620 miles east of Moscow, is primarily focused on manufacturing military drones. Many women report that their promised salaries and working conditions are misleading, with deductions leaving them with little pay. Women are kept in segregated dormitories and face strict monitoring, limiting their freedom. Some have resorted to prostitution after losing their jobs, highlighting the grim reality of their situation in Russia.