Kenyans recruited into the Russian military will not be immediately repatriated, despite pleas from their families, following recent diplomatic discussions between Kenya and Russia.
Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi met with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, to address the situation of Kenyan citizens enlisted in Russia. Lavrov emphasized that recruitment was voluntary and that contracts must be officially terminated through Russia’s Ministry of Defence before any return can occur. Mudavadi highlighted that some recruits did not disclose their intentions beforehand, noting that such actions may contravene Kenyan law. The discussions sought a diplomatic resolution to protect the welfare of Kenyans abroad.
The talks resulted in an agreement that no more Kenyan citizens will be enlisted into the Russian military. Mudavadi confirmed that Nairobi and Moscow have agreed to prevent future recruitment and ensure Kenyans are no longer eligible to join Russia’s defence forces.
The Kenyan government is also arranging consular support for citizens currently hospitalized or in need while in Russia. Mudavadi assured families that the government is coordinating with Russian authorities to facilitate assistance according to the law.
Mudavadi stressed that Kenya’s relationship with Russia will not be defined by the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. His visit also aimed to strengthen bilateral ties in areas such as education, agriculture, labour mobility, infrastructure, and energy.
While immediate repatriation may not be possible for all affected Kenyans, the government has successfully halted further enlistment and is taking steps to support citizens in Russia. These efforts aim to balance family concerns with diplomatic and legal considerations.
