Over 200 Kenyans Reportedly Fighting for Russia in Ukraine, Government Confirms

Kenya says more than 200 of its citizens are fighting for Russia in the war in Ukraine.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Kenyan citizens have been enlisted through recruitment drives operating both within the country and abroad. Despite previous government action, officials said the networks remain active. 

Kenya’s embassy in Moscow has reported injuries among some of the recruits, many of whom were allegedly promised up to $18,000 to cover travel, visas, and accommodation costs. The disclosure comes after Ukraine reported that over 1,400 Africans from around thirty countries are fighting alongside Russian forces. 

Ukraine’s deputy foreign minister, Andriy Sybiha, described the contracts offered to African recruits as equivalent to “a death sentence” and urged African governments to warn their citizens against such offers. Kenya has already faced direct cases of recruitment.

In September, security officers near Nairobi rescued 21 people who were being prepared for deployment to the war zone. Authorities said the group had been deceived about their assignments, believing they would work in non-combat roles such as drone assembly, chemical handling, or painting. One suspect was arrested and charged in connection with the operation.

The Russian embassy in Nairobi has not commented on the matter, leaving questions about Russia’s involvement in the recruitment efforts. Moscow has strengthened its engagement with African countries in recent years through military and economic partnerships, but the alleged use of deceptive enlistment methods risks creating diplomatic tensions.