Kenyan Nationals Join Russian Forces in Ukraine: Over 200 Participating

Thu Nov 13 2025 16:48:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Over 200 Kenyans, including former security personnel, are reportedly fighting for Russia amid concerns of ongoing recruitment for the war in Ukraine. The Kenyan government is actively seeking to ensure the safety of its citizens caught in this conflict.

Reports reveal that more than 200 Kenyans are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, drawing attention to the alarming trend of foreign recruitment in the ongoing conflict. Kenyan authorities express concern over potential recruitment networks operating within the country, operating under deceptive practices. Recent discussions led by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister highlight the government's efforts to secure the release of Kenyan nationals involved in the combat zone. This situation sheds light on a larger issue, with roughly 1,400 Africans reportedly engaged in the conflict for Russia, raising questions about their treatment and safety.

Some 200 Kenyans are fighting for Russia in its war against Ukraine and more could be recruited into the conflict, authorities say.

Among them are former members of Kenya's security forces, according to Kenya's Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi.

Some of those who have been rescued said they were forced to assemble drones and handle chemicals without proper training or protective gear, the minister added.

Kenyan President William Ruto last week requested the Ukrainian government to secure the release of Kenyans currently held in the conflict zone.

About 1,400 citizens from across Africa are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, with some recruited through deception, the Ukraine government said last week.

A young Kenyan athlete was in September captured in Ukraine and said that he had been tricked into joining the Russian army.

Recruitment exercises in Russia have reportedly expanded to include African nationals, including Kenyans, said Mudavadi in a press conference on Wednesday.

Over 200 Kenyans may have joined the Russian military... recruitment networks are still active in both Kenya and Russia, he added.

Kenya's embassy in Moscow has recorded injuries among some of the recruits, who were allegedly promised up to $18,000 (£14,000) to cover costs for visas, travel, and accommodation, the minister said.

Mudavadi also highlighted concerns about the growing number of nationals involved in forced criminality such as drug trafficking and forced labor abroad.

In September, Kenyan authorities rescued more than 20 nationals who were preparing to join the Russia-Ukraine war near the capital, Nairobi.

Reports indicate a suspect was arrested in connection with the recruitment of Kenyans to Russia.

As the global community watches, discussions continue regarding the ramifications of foreign nationals engaging in this ongoing conflict.