Slavonic Corps

The Slavonic Corps (Russian: Славянский Корпус), established on 18 January 2012 in Hong Kong as a private military contractor (PMC), operated during the Syrian civil war for 113 days before many of its fighters founded the Wagner Group. The company was registered by Vadim Gusev and Yevgeniy Sidorov, both employees of Moran Security Group, with Gusev holding all shares. In spring 2013, the Slavonic Corps recruited former Russian military personnel, including OMON, SOBR, VDV, and Spetsnaz members, as well as those with experience from the Tajikistani Civil War and Second Chechen War, offering $5,000 monthly for guard duties in Syria.

Deployed to Beirut, Lebanon, the PMC was later stationed in Damascus and near Latakia-Tartus. They were tasked with protecting oil fields in Deir ez-Zor but faced challenges, including outdated equipment and a lack of Syrian government involvement. On 18 October 2013, their convoy was attacked by Islamic State forces during an attempt to reinforce Syrian army positions in Al-Sukhnah. The contractors, vastly outnumbered, retreated after遭遇 fierce resistance and natural obstacles like sandstorms.

Following their retreat, the group returned to Russia, where they were detained by the FSB under suspicion of mercenary activity. Gusev and Sidorov were charged and convicted in 2014. Some former members later joined the Wagner Group, while others, like Sidorov, went on to work with other PMCs such as Redut-Security LLC.

The Slavonic Corps' experience highlighted challenges faced by Russian contractors in foreign conflicts, including inadequate equipment and legal risks upon return.