Kenya demands answers from Russia over recruitment of citizens to fight in Ukraine war

Kenya is demanding answers from Russia regarding the recruitment of its citizens to fight in the Ukraine war. Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi stated the recruitment was unacceptable and that the government has shut down illegal recruiters. Kenya estimates around 200 nationals have been recruited, and families are struggling to repatriate the bodies of those killed. Ukraine estimates over 1,400 foreign nationals from 36 African countries have been recruited by Russia, often through coercion and deception. Mudavadi reported receiving distress calls from Kenyans in Russian military camps and has since tightened recruitment regulations, deregistering non-compliant agencies to prevent further exploitation. Kenya will urge Moscow to sign an agreement barring the conscription of its citizens.

Kenya plans to confront Russia regarding the recruitment and use of Kenyan nationals in the war in Ukraine, deeming the practice "unacceptable." Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi stated that Kenya has shut down illegal recruitment agencies and will seek an agreement with Moscow to ban the conscription of Kenyan soldiers. The Kenyan government estimates around 200 citizens have been recruited, with 27 repatriated and receiving psychological support. Pressure has mounted on the Kenyan government following reports of Kenyan casualties fighting for Russia, with families blaming the government's failure to regulate recruitment agencies. Kenya aims to address the issue through discussions on visa policies and bilateral labor agreements, while also working with Ukraine to repatriate the remains of deceased Kenyan fighters.