Russia Halts Recruitment of Kenyan Fighters for Ukraine

Russia has agreed to stop recruiting citizens from Kenya to fight in Ukraine, Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi announced after talks in Moscow with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Estimates suggest that over 1,000 Kenyans had already joined the conflict, while Ukraine reports that roughly 1,780 fighters from 36 African countries are serving alongside Russian forces.

Mudavadi said the agreement came after growing concern among Kenyans about their citizens being recruited. Lavrov did not mention the deal directly but noted that the Russian defence ministry is reviewing cases that raised concerns.

Lavrov emphasized that participation in what Russia calls its “special military operation” is voluntary and in accordance with Russian law, asserting that no one is being forced to enlist.

The move is seen as a diplomatic win for Kenya, aimed at protecting its citizens from foreign recruitment into an ongoing and dangerous conflict.

Source: Newstimehub