Ukraine accuses Russia of exploiting poverty in Africa to recruit fighters, claiming that over 1,400 citizens from 36 African countries are fighting alongside Russian troops.

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, stated that the majority of these recruits are sent into direct attacks, where their survival is rare. He urged African governments to warn citizens about the dangers of recruitment for the Russian army, calling it illegal and immoral. Kenya has confirmed that Russian recruiters are luring citizens with false promises of work, and the authorities are working to repatriate those involved.

Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine will publish more information about foreign citizens captured while fighting for Russia and reiterated the call for governments to stop these recruitment schemes.