Ukrainian authorities say more than 1,700 African nationals are currently fighting on the side of Russia in the ongoing war in Ukraine, raising fresh concerns about Moscow’s recruitment tactics abroad.
According to officials in Kyiv, the fighters were allegedly recruited from several African countries, with some reportedly lured by promises of employment, financial incentives or educational opportunities before being deployed to the battlefield.
The claims were made by representatives of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who said intelligence findings suggest a growing presence of foreign nationals within Russian units operating in occupied territories.
Ukrainian officials allege that recruitment networks linked to Russia have targeted economically vulnerable individuals, including students and migrant workers, offering contracts that later result in deployment to combat zones.
Moscow has not publicly confirmed the figures cited by Ukraine. However, Russia has previously acknowledged that foreign volunteers have joined its military campaign since the invasion began in February 2022.
The war, launched by Russia under President Vladimir Putin, has drawn fighters from various parts of the world on both sides, including Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.
Several African governments have in the past expressed concern over reports that their citizens were being recruited or coerced into military service abroad. In some instances, embassies have sought clarification from Moscow following reports that nationals were killed or captured in Ukraine.
Kyiv has urged African nations to caution their citizens against joining foreign military operations, warning that those captured on the battlefield could face legal consequences under Ukrainian law.
The conflict has increasingly taken on an international dimension, with both Russia and Ukraine relying on foreign fighters, military contractors and external military support.
Ukraine continues to receive military assistance from Western allies, including the NATO member states, while Russia has strengthened ties with partners in parts of Africa and Asia.
The claims regarding African fighters could further complicate diplomatic relations between Russia and several African countries, many of which have sought to maintain neutral positions in the conflict.
The war, now entering its fourth year, has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties and widespread destruction, with no comprehensive peace agreement in sight.
