Russian Federation military has never used the AK-47. In 1974, the Soviets had already began replacing their AK-47 and AKM rifles with the AK-74, and even that has been succeeded in modern Russian service with the AK-100 family of rifles.
In "Russia", the Boys are driving a Dodge Sprinter. In Europe and Russia, that would of course be a Mercedes Sprinter (or in any event a European, Japanese or Korean van.)
Butcher recognizes Soldier boy even though he probably never saw him up close, and if so, it was decades earlier, without a beard. And he recognizes him despite not only the beard but even while Soldier Boy's face is still obscured by the breathing mask.
There is no actual point for Butcher to take Frenchie to the meeting with Nina.