President William Ruto held a phone call with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during which they discussed the release of Kenyans in Ukrainian custody.
In a statement on November 6, both leaders expressed concern over young Kenyans who have been illegally recruited to fight in Ukraine and agreed to raise awareness about the dangers of such ventures.
Ruto requested that President Zelensky facilitate the release of any Kenyan in Ukrainian custody, a move the Ukrainian leader has agreed to consider.
“I have had a fruitful phone conversation with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine, and discussed various issues of mutual interest between our two peoples and countries,” read part of the statement.
“I have requested President Zelensky to facilitate the release of any Kenyan in Ukrainian custody. I am grateful to His Excellency for acceding to my appeal.”
Ruto also commended President Zelensky for the upcoming Ukraine Food Summit, set to take place later this month.
Zelenskyy, Ruto discussions
President Zelensky also briefed Ruto on Russia’s attacks on civilians and infrastructure and outlined efforts to stop the recruitment of foreign citizens through fraudulent means.
“We touched upon the issue of Russia’s recruitment of foreign citizens into its criminal war. We are aware of all the fraudulent methods being used and will work more closely to put an end to them,” he said.
Both leaders discussed ongoing bilateral relations and joint projects, with their teams continuing work on these initiatives.
During the call, special attention was given to the plight of Ukrainian children, with Zelensky noting that Ukraine will submit a resolution this month at the United Nations condemning Russia’s illegal abduction and deportation of children.
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Kenya for its support of Ukraine.
“I informed him about Russia’s attacks on people and infrastructure, and I am grateful for his warm words of support,” read part of the statement.
Also Read: Kenyan Serving in Russian Army Captured in Ukraine
Russia Recruits Kenyans to Fight the War
In September, the Kenyan police said they rescued 22 people from an alleged human trafficking ring that was secretly funneling citizens to Russia to be deployed in the war against Ukraine.
The operation followed an intelligence-led raid on a residential apartment in the Athi River area on the outskirts of Nairobi.
One suspect accused of coordinating the recruitment was arrested and brought to court, where he was ordered detained for 19 days as police pursue further investigations.
Officials said the man had allegedly arranged for the victims to travel to Russia in September and October.
According to detectives, the victims revealed they had signed contracts with an unnamed overseas employment agency and were promised jobs in Russia.
Also Read: How Kenyans Are Recruited to Join Ukraine, Russia Military; Combat Veteran Explains
Kenyan Captured in Ukraine
A Kenyan citizen was detained by Ukrainian forces after being captured while fighting for the Russian military near Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast.
According to Ukraine’s 57th Motorized Infantry Brigade, which released a statement on September 17, the man—who identified himself only as Evans—was previously an athlete who had traveled to Russia as a tourist.
Evans claims he was deceived into joining the Russian armed forces.
“I ended up in Russia without realizing I had been recruited into the Russian army. I had never served before,” he said in a video released by the brigade.
“I didn’t go to Russia for that.”
He explained that the Russian host who accommodated him offered what seemed like a job opportunity and handed him documents to sign, which, unknown to him, were actually part of a military enlistment contract.
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