AP’s cross-border reporting and high-impact visuals expose exploitation of Bangladeshi workers by Russian military

By Samya Kullab

A single tip to Ukraine correspondent Samya Kullab sparked an international investigation that uncovered a disturbing pattern: Bangladeshi men promised civilian jobs in Russia were instead coerced into fighting on the front lines of the war in Ukraine.

Kullab’s determined reporting led her to Bangladesh’s rural Lakshmipur district, where she partnered with journalists Julhas Alam, Al-emrun Garjon and Rajib Dhar to gain access to families of victims and survivors. The team secured physical documentation — including contracts and permits — confirming the scale of deception.

The all-formats package included powerful visual storytelling and intimate portraits that captured the grief and fear of families affected by the exploitation. Dasha Litvinova provided essential context on Russia’s recruitment efforts, and Chris Sundheim’s editing helped shape a narrative that laid bare a global labor abuse pipeline tied directly to armed conflict.

Judges praised the story’s scope, humanity and striking visuals, calling it a standout example of AP’s global reach and reporting depth.

For leading comprehensive and exclusive reporting, Kullab wins Best of AP — First Winner.