• More than 200 Kenyans are believed to be fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
• Former soldiers among the recruits, suggesting targeted recruitment strategies.
• Kenyan officials warn of ongoing recruitment networks deceiving citizens.

Kenya has reported that over 200 of its nationals are involved in the conflict alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, with concerns raised about the recruitment of citizens, including former members of the security services. Musalia Mudavadi, the country's Foreign Affairs Minister, indicated that “recruitment networks are still active in both Kenya and Russia,” posing significant risks to national security, according to AA, Africanews, and BBC.

Reports reveal that some of these recruits were promised substantial compensation, including up to $18,000 for expenses related to visas and travel, which has drawn criticism regarding the effectiveness of safeguarding Kenyan nationals from exploitation. There have been indications that some recruits are being forced to undertake perilous tasks without adequate training or protection, as highlighted in statements from Mudavadi, according to AA, Africanews, and BBC.

Additionally, the Ukrainian government stated that approximately 1,400 citizens from various African nations are currently engaging in combat with Russian forces. The situation has led to diplomatic actions, including Kenyan President William Ruto’s requests for the release of Kenyan nationals detained in combat zones, integrated into broader worries over overseas recruitment tactics that mislead citizens into joining as combatants, according to AA, Africanews, and BBC.