South African Leader Thanks Putin for Returning Recruited Men
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the return of 17 South African men who had been drawn into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These men, aged between 20 and 39, were reportedly recruited under dubious circumstances, leading the South African government to step in.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Ramaphosa’s office indicated that the government collaborated closely with Russian officials to facilitate the repatriation. The efforts came after receiving distress calls from the individuals seeking help.
Four of the men are already back in South Africa, while 11 more are on their way. Two remain in Russia, with one receiving medical care in Moscow and the other working on travel arrangements.
Ramaphosa thanked Putin during a phone call on February 10, highlighting the positive response from Russian authorities. Meanwhile, the South African embassy in Moscow is monitoring the situation of the individual who remains hospitalized.
In a broader context, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha mentioned that at least 1,436 foreign nationals from 36 African nations have allegedly been recruited to fight for Russia, with concerns that the actual number could be even higher. Many reports suggest that Russia employs various methods, such as financial incentives and manipulation, to attract foreign fighters.
Officials warn that signing up can be a dangerous choice, with some suggesting that recruits often face lethal conditions on the battlefield.
