Kenya-Russia Deal Halts Kenyan Recruitment for Ukraine War

Kenya and Russia have agreed that Kenyan nationals will no longer be enlisted to fight for Russia in the war in Ukraine. Kenya's foreign minister, Musalia Mudavadi, made the announcement following talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow.

The agreement comes after a Kenyan intelligence report warned in February that more than 1,000 citizens had been recruited to fight for Russia. Mudavadi emphasized that consular services would be organized for those requiring assistance through proper diplomatic channels. He also sought the repatriation of Kenyans who wish to return home.

Some Kenyans have reported being lured to fight for Russia with promises of well-paid civilian jobs, only to find themselves forced into combat in Ukraine. Public pressure has grown, with families protesting outside parliament in Nairobi and calling for government action. So far, 27 Kenyans who had been fighting in Russia have been repatriated.

The recruitment scandal has triggered anger in countries like Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. African governments are wary of overtly taking sides during the Ukraine war but are mindful of the distress caused to their citizens. The issue is expected to be addressed collectively by African nations as a continental concern.