Africa Kiev holds out prospect of return for Kenyan prisoners of war
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has held out the prospect of a return home for Africans taken prisoner of war during fighting against Russian troops. Those who are taken prisoner by Ukrainian forces not only save their lives, but also have the opportunity to return home, the minister told X. Previously, Kenyan President William Ruto had called on his Ukrainian counterpart Selenskyj to release the prisoners from his country.
07.11.2025, 19:23
SDA
According to Sybiha, at least 1436 citizens from 36 African countries are fighting on the Russian side against Ukraine. He said that most of the mercenaries were taken prisoner by the Ukrainians during their first combat mission. They would be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Selenskyj and Ruto spoke about mercenaries
Following the telephone conversation with Ruto, Zelensky had previously only stated that the two had discussed the issue of foreign fighters on the Russian side. He did not comment on the release of the Kenyans.
"I have asked President Zelensky to facilitate the release of all Kenyans from Ukrainian custody," Ruto told X. He did not give a number, but said that Selenskyj had complied with the request. He also wanted to raise awareness among young Kenyans that such deployments are illegal and dangerous.
Ukraine calls for clarification in Africa
Sybiha accused Russia of using various methods to recruit not only citizens of African states but also of other countries for the war. Some are lured with money, others do not know what they are getting into. "Signing a contract is tantamount to a death sentence," he warned. "Foreign citizens have a sad fate in the Russian army."
Sybiha called on the governments of African states to make public announcements to educate their citizens and warn against such deployments. "Fighting for Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine is illegal, immoral and violates the United Nations Charter and international law," he said.
Ukraine has been defending itself against the Russian war of aggression for more than three and a half years - and is also relying on a foreign legion with volunteer fighters from abroad.
