Kenya's government has successfully rescued 27 citizens who were stranded in Russia after being illegally recruited to participate in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed that the return of these individuals was facilitated through diplomatic channels by the Kenyan mission in Moscow. The recruits, misled by networks affiliated with the Russian military, had been promised jobs that turned out to involve frontline combat roles, leading to significant risks to their safety and well-being.

Upon their return, some of the repatriated Kenyans reported experiencing serious injuries and were forced to engage in hazardous tasks such as assembling drones without the necessary training or protective equipment. This incident raises alarms over the methods of recruitment utilized by these networks, which prey on vulnerable individuals seeking better economic opportunities. Additionally, Mudavadi expressed the Kenyan government's commitment to addressing this issue at a higher diplomatic level, indicating plans for his visit to Moscow to seek solutions and preventive measures against further recruitment efforts.

Moreover, the Kenyan government has committed to providing psychosocial support and resources for reintegration to the returnees, acknowledging the emotional and physical toll that such experiences can lead to. This incident not only highlights the exploitation of Kenyans by foreign military entities but also underscores the need for stronger protective measures for citizens against deceptive recruitment practices in conflict zones.