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Africans face heavy casualties after being recruited into Russian army
Summary
A Swiss investigation identified more than 1,400 Africans who signed contracts with the Russian army from January 2023 to September 2025 and reported that about 316 of those identified were killed within months of deployment.
Content
A Swiss-based investigation found that people from across Africa were recruited into Russian military contracts between January 2023 and September 2025. The report identified more than 1,400 individuals from 35 countries and said a substantial number of those identified were killed within months after being sent to the front. Investigators described what they say is a network of social-media accounts and travel agencies that promoted contracts with promises of pay, bonuses and other benefits that, investigators say, were often not delivered. The recruitment and the deaths have prompted diplomatic and legal responses in several African countries.
Known details:
- Investigators identified more than 1,400 Africans from 35 countries who signed contracts with the Russian army from January 2023 to September 2025.
- Of those identified, the report says 316 died in combat, with many deaths occurring within months of arrival.
- Recruitment grew year by year in the period covered: 177 in 2023, 592 in 2024 and 647 in 2025, according to the report.
- The investigation describes networks using social media and travel agencies to recruit, often offering high initial payments and monthly salaries that investigators say were frequently not paid.
- Kenya and South Africa have taken official steps, including diplomatic outreach and legal action; trials and political resignations linked to recruitment activity are underway.
Summary:
The report has raised concerns across multiple African governments and led to diplomatic contacts and legal proceedings aimed at addressing the recruitment and the fate of nationals. Known developments include a planned Kenyan diplomatic visit to Moscow and ongoing trials in South Africa; the broader resolution is undetermined at this time.
