According to available information, at least 1436 citizens from 36 African countries are currently fighting in the ranks of Russia’s invasion army in Ukraine.
The number represents those identified, though the actual number could be higher.
Russia recruits nationals of African countries using a variety of methods. Some are offered money, while others are duped and do not realize what they are signing up for or are forced to do so under duress.
Signing a contract is equivalent to signing a death sentence.
Foreign citizens in the Russian army have a sad fate. Most of them are immediately sent to the so-called “meat assaults,” where they are quickly killed.
The Russian command understands that there will be no accountability for the killed foreigner, so they are treated as second-rate, expendable human material.
Most mercenaries do not survive more than a month.
There are two options to avoid such a fate.
First, do not be recruited and do not sign any documents with Russian authorities.
I urge all African governments to issue public statements warning their citizens against joining the Russian invasion army.
Fighting for Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine is illegal, immoral, and violates the UN Charter and international law.
Second, if you’ve already been deployed to the front lines, look for any opportunity to desert and become a prisoner of war.
The majority of foreign mercenaries in our custody became prisoners of war during their first combat. They all saved their own lives. We treat POWs in accordance with all international humanitarian law standards.
Ukrainian captivity provides a ticket to life and the possibility of returning to your home country.
Russia attempts to recruit people from other countries, not only nationals of African countries.
We will provide more specific information about the regions and countries from which foreign citizens are recruited by the Russian occupation army and then taken captive.
We once again urge all governments to make every effort to disrupt Russian recruitment schemes and to inform their citizens that such activity is illegal.
The author is Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister