Kenyan authorities have revealed that more than 200 of their citizens are currently fighting for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with concerns that additional nationals could still be drawn into the war. Many of the recruits are reportedly former members of Kenya’s security forces.
Officials say some of those rescued from the conflict zone were compelled to assemble drones and handle hazardous chemicals without adequate training or protective equipment. The Kenyan government has appealed to Ukraine to secure the release of its citizens caught in the fighting.
The phenomenon is part of a broader pattern, with around 1,400 African nationals reported to be serving alongside Russian forces, some recruited under deceptive circumstances. In one recent case, a young Kenyan athlete claimed he was tricked into joining Russian military ranks. Recruitment operations reportedly continue in both Kenya and Russia, with promises of financial incentives covering visas, travel, and accommodation.
Authorities have raised alarms about the risks associated with this recruitment, citing instances of forced criminal activity abroad, including drug trafficking and forced labour, which pose threats to both national and international security.
Earlier in September, Kenyan officials rescued over 20 citizens who were preparing to join the conflict. Investigations have led to the arrest of at least one individual suspected of facilitating recruitment for Russia.
The issue is not limited to Kenya. African nationals from countries including South Africa, Somalia, Sierra Leone, and Togo are reported to be held in Ukrainian prisoner-of-war camps, with international scrutiny over recruitment practices from both sides of the conflict. This situation highlights growing concerns over foreign nationals being drawn into international wars under precarious and sometimes coercive circumstances.
