Kenyan families demand return of loved ones recruited into Russian army
Al Jazeera
February 19, 2026
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Kenyan families are demanding the return of over 1,000 citizens who were allegedly tricked into fighting for Russia in Ukraine. According to an official intelligence report, these individuals were lured with false promises of jobs, only to be sent to the front lines of the conflict. Families gathered in Nairobi to protest and urge the government to take action, as many recruits remain missing or hospitalized. The recruitment scheme involved a network of corrupt officials, travel agents, and embassy staff who facilitated the movement of Kenyans to Russia via tourist visas. Some recruits were promised lucrative salaries, while others were deceived into believing they were securing employment in roles like security guards.
The report revealed that at least 89 Kenyan nationals are currently on the front lines, with 28 reported missing and 39 hospitalized. Families have expressed frustration over the lack of support from Kenya’s Foreign Ministry, which has instead directed them to seek answers through the Kenyan embassy in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in Kenya denied any involvement in illegal recruitment, stating that Russians do not prevent foreign citizens from enlisting voluntarily. However, critics argue that the circumstances surrounding these recruits suggest coercion rather than genuine voluntarism.
The issue highlights broader concerns about human trafficking and exploitation, particularly targeting vulnerable populations like unemployed Kenyans seeking better opportunities abroad. Recruits were allegedly promised high earnings, ranging from 350,000 shillings ($2,715) monthly to bonuses of up to 1.2 million shillings ($9,309). Some recruits traveled through countries like Turkey, the UAE, Uganda, South Africa, and the DRC after Kenya加强 surveillance at Nairobi airport.
This situation raises ethical questions about the role of mercenaries in modern conflicts and the exploitation of individuals from developing nations. The families’ protests underscore the need for stronger international cooperation to protect citizens from such schemes. With Kenya’s Foreign Minister planning a visit to Russia next month, hopes are pinned on negotiations
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/19/2026