PS Sing’oei, Ukrainian Envoy Hold Talks Over Kenyans Captured Fighting for Russia

Kenya has begun diplomatic talks with Ukraine after reports emerged that several Kenyan nationals were captured while fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing war.

The Kenyan government believes the individuals were victims of human trafficking, lured abroad with false promises of jobs or education opportunities before being forced into combat. The issue was discussed on 6 October during a meeting between Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Kipkorir Sing’oei and Ukraine’s Ambassador to Kenya, Yurii Tokar. 

Both officials agreed to work together to ensure the safe return of those affected and to strengthen cooperation against trafficking networks. Dr Sing’oei said Kenya is seeking consular assistance for its citizens detained in Ukraine. 

“Following recent reports of Kenyan nationals captured by Ukrainian forces on the frontline, I sought Ambassador Tokar’s support to ensure that the Kenyans receive consular assistance and are returned home safely,” he said. 

He emphasised that the government views the matter as part of its duty to protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation, noting that most had been misled into travelling abroad. Kenya maintains that dialogue and respect for sovereignty remain the most credible means of ending the Russia–Ukraine conflict, now in its third year. 

Officials have expressed concern about the broader impact of the war, which has displaced millions and created conditions that allow criminal groups to exploit people seeking better opportunities. Authorities in Nairobi have warned of a growing pattern of Kenyans being deceived by false overseas offers. 

Recent cases involve individuals promised work or sports scholarships who later found themselves in dangerous or exploitative situations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged citizens to exercise caution, highlighting that traffickers are increasingly taking advantage of global instability to expand their operations.

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, following years of conflict that started with the annexation of Crimea in 2014.