Kenya to challenge Russia over ‘unacceptable’ use of Kenyan nationals in combat

Kenya has said it will engage Russia over reports that its citizens are being recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine, describing the practice as unacceptable.

Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi said the Kenyan government has shut down illegal recruitment networks and will urge Moscow to enter into an agreement banning the conscription of Kenyan nationals.

The government estimates that about 200 Kenyans have been recruited to fight for Russian forces, though the exact figure remains unclear as none are believed to have travelled through official channels.

Mudavadi said Kenya’s discussions with Russia would focus on stopping illegal recruitment, reviewing visa policies, and strengthening bilateral labour agreements to exclude military service.

Authorities have closed more than 600 recruitment agencies accused of deceiving Kenyans with promises of overseas employment.
So far, 27 Kenyans who fought in Russia have been repatriated and are receiving psychological support to address trauma. The number of Kenyan casualties remains unknown, and Russian authorities have not formally responded to the reports.

Mudavadi said efforts are ongoing, in coordination with Ukraine, to recover and repatriate the remains of Kenyans who died in the conflict.

Public pressure has mounted on the Kenyan government following the discovery of more bodies of citizens recruited to fight for Russian forces. While some families have blamed authorities for failing to curb illegal recruitment, the government maintains it has acted decisively by dismantling such networks.

Ukrainian intelligence estimates that more than 1,400 fighters from 36 African countries have been recruited by Russia. Ukrainian officials have warned that foreign nationals fighting for Russian forces will be treated as enemy combatants and advised surrender as the only safe exit.