Kenyan families demand return of loved ones recruited into Russian army

More than 1,000 Kenyan citizens have been lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine, with dozens currently on the front line, hospitalized, or missing. Families are demanding their return after a report revealed a scam involving rogue state officials and trafficking syndicates tricking locals with promises of jobs and high pay. The Russian embassy denies illegal recruitment but does not rule out voluntary enlistment from foreign countries. Recruited individuals initially traveled to Russia on tourist visas, with some being ex-soldiers while others were deceived with false promises of lucrative earnings. Kenya’s Foreign Ministry has rescued 27 stranded Kenyans in Russia, and plans are in place for the Foreign Minister to discuss the issue with Russian officials next month.

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