Kenyan Youths Tricked Into Fighting for Russia in Ukraine, Families Demand Return
December 6, 2025
David Kuloba's mother warned him against going to Russia after he accepted a job as a security guard. He left Kenya in August, aiming for better pay. But instead of a job, David was trained for combat and sent to fight in Ukraine. He last contacted his mother on 4 October, fearing for his life. Since then, he has disappeared. The recruitment agent admitted David was missing and likely dead, offering no proof. Another Kenyan soldier was injured in Ukraine after similar recruitment based on false promises. Kenya's foreign minister said about 200 Kenyans serve Russia, with recruitment agencies actively involved. Some agencies have been suspended, and investigations are ongoing. Families urge faster government action to bring their sons back safely. Kenya plans new laws to better control recruitment and stop scams. Officials say repatriation must follow diplomatic channels. This problem affects several African countries, with young men duped into fighting overseas. The Kenyan government is mapping all known cases but has not confirmed deaths. David's mother remains heartbroken, wanting answers and her son's safe return.
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Tags:
Kenya
Russia
Ukraine war
Recruitment Scam
Kenyans In Russia
Foreign Fighters
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