Ruto, Zelenskyy Discuss Release of Kenyans Caught Up in Ukraine War

President William Ruto has urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to release several Kenyan nationals reportedly detained in Ukraine after being caught up in the conflict with Russia.

The appeal was made during a phone conversation on Thursday, 6 November, as concerns grow in Nairobi over the alleged recruitment of Kenyans into foreign military service. President Ruto said he had asked his Ukrainian counterpart to facilitate the release of any Kenyans held by Ukrainian authorities and expressed gratitude for Zelenskyy’s agreement to assist.

The discussion followed reports that some Kenyans had been drawn into the conflict under unclear circumstances. Among them is 44-year-old Evans Kibet, who claims he travelled to Russia as an athlete but was deceived into joining the Russian army. 

Kibet was later captured by Ukrainian forces near the frontlines and is believed to be in Ukrainian custody. President Ruto voiced alarm over what he described as deceptive practices that lure Kenyans into combat roles abroad. 

He called for stronger international cooperation to raise awareness of the risks associated with such schemes and to protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation.

Efforts to address the issue began last month when Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei met with Ukraine’s ambassador to Kenya, Yurii Tokar. 

The talks focused on securing consular access for detained Kenyans and initiating their repatriation. The Kenyan government has pledged to act against networks suspected of recruiting citizens for foreign military service and to provide support for those affected. Officials say these networks often exploit individuals by offering false promises of employment or travel opportunities.

Beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, Presidents Ruto and Zelenskyy also discussed broader cooperation, including Ukraine’s upcoming Food Summit, which Kenya is expected to participate in.