At least 1,436 citizens from 36 African countries are fighting in the Russian army against Ukraine
At least 1,436 citizens from 36 African countries are currently fighting in the Russian army against Ukraine, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said.
“According to available information, at least 1,436 citizens from 36 African countries are currently fighting in the ranks of the Russian army invading Ukraine. This figure reflects those who have been identified, although the actual number may be higher,” he said.
Sybiga noted that Russia is recruiting citizens of African countries using various methods: some are offered money, others are deceived and do not realize what they are signing up for, or are forced to do so under pressure.
“Signing a contract is tantamount to signing a death sentence. Foreign citizens in the Russian army have a sad fate. Most of them are immediately sent to the so-called “meat raids”, where they are quickly killed. The Russian command understands that there will be no responsibility for a killed foreigner, so they are treated as second-rate, expendable human material. Most mercenaries do not live more than a month,” he stressed.
Sibiga called on foreigners not to recruit and not to sign any documents with the Russian authorities, and African governments to publish public statements warning their citizens against joining the Russian army.
He advises those who have already been sent to the front lines to look for any opportunity to desert and become prisoners of war.
“Most of the foreign mercenaries under our care became prisoners of war during their first battle. All of them saved their lives. We treat prisoners of war in accordance with all standards of international humanitarian law. Captivity in Ukraine gives a ticket to life and the opportunity to return to their native country,” the minister noted.
Sibiga called on the governments of all countries to make every effort to disrupt Russian recruitment schemes and inform their citizens that such activities are illegal.
Earlier, Bloomberg reported, citing European officials, that the aggressor country Russia is recruiting thousands of foreign students and migrants from Africa to fight against Ukraine.