The Russian Embassy in Nairobi has clarified that Kenyans have the right to join the Russian Armed Forces if they wish, while firmly denying any claims of their involvement in recruitment for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a statement released on Thursday, the Embassy described reports suggesting its participation in recruiting Kenyan citizens as a "dangerous and misleading propaganda campaign." The Embassy emphasized that it has never issued visas to Kenyans intending to travel to Russia for the purpose of joining the military operations in Ukraine.

The statement from the Embassy rejected allegations of encouraging or being complicit with networks that might be luring Kenyans into combat. The Embassy reiterated that no travel arrangements have ever been processed for Kenyans looking to participate in the Russian military efforts. Furthermore, it defended the legal rights of foreign nationals to join the Russian army under the country's laws, maintaining that any such decisions are made freely and without external influence or coercion.

The clarification comes amidst a tense geopolitical landscape, where foreign involvement in the conflict has raised concerns globally. The Embassy's denial of any recruitment activities is significant in light of the complex narratives surrounding the war in Ukraine, aiming to distance itself from accusations and to present a transparent stance on its recruitment policies for foreign nationals.