At least 1,436 citizens from 36 African countries have been identified as taking part in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Source: Andrii Sybiha, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, on X (Twitter)

Details: Sybiha said that these are only the individuals who were identified, and the real figure may be higher.

Quote: "Russia recruits nationals of African countries using a variety of methods. Some are offered money, while others are duped and do not realise what they are signing up for or are forced to do so under duress. Signing a contract is equivalent to signing a death sentence."

More details: Sybiha stressed that foreign nationals serving in Russian forces face a grim fate, with most sent straight into so-called "meat assaults" where they are quickly killed.

The Ukrainian foreign minister said that Russian commanders know no one will be held accountable for the deaths of foreigners, so they treat them as expendable human material, and most mercenaries do not survive more than a month.

Sybiha said that foreigners have two ways to avoid such a fate: refuse recruitment or, if they are already deployed to the front lines, seek any opportunity to desert and surrender.

He noted that most foreign mercenaries now in Ukrainian custody were taken prisoner in their first battle, which ultimately saved their lives. Ukraine treats POWs in line with all standards of international humanitarian law.

Quote: "Ukrainian captivity provides a ticket to life and the possibility of returning to your home country.

I urge all African governments to issue public statements warning their citizens against joining the Russian invasion army. Fighting for Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine is illegal, immoral, and violates the UN Charter and international law.

Russia attempts to recruit people from other countries, not only nationals of African countries. We will provide more specific information about the regions and countries from which foreign citizens are recruited by the Russian occupation army and then taken captive.

We once again urge all governments to make every effort to disrupt Russian recruitment schemes and to inform their citizens that such activity is illegal."

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