Ruto called Moscow’s recruitment of Kenyans “a reckless venture.”
Kenyan President William Ruto has sought Ukraine’s assistance in securing the release of Kenyans reportedly recruited to fight for Russia, according to UA Wire reporting.
Ruto disclosed in a post on X that he had a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which he condemned Moscow’s actions as “a reckless venture.” He said both nations will collaborate to expose and stop illegal recruitment schemes targeting Africans.
The Kenyan leader added that he specifically asked Zelensky to help secure the release of Kenyans held captive, and that the Ukrainian president agreed. Ruto also emphasized plans for joint public campaigns to warn citizens about deceptive “offers” from Russian recruiters.
Kyiv confirmed the call took place on November 6. Ukraine’s presidential office accused Moscow of luring foreigners with promises of money and documents, only to use them as cannon fodder at the front.
Ukrainian officials earlier stated that Russia has increasingly turned to citizens from poor African and Middle Eastern nations to offset heavy battlefield losses. Analysts suggest the Kremlin’s reliance on foreign recruits helps conceal the true scale of mobilization within Russia