South African Mercenaries in Ukraine Seek Help

The South African Presidency confirmed it has received urgent requests for assistance from 17 male citizens, aged 20 to 39, who are currently trapped in Ukraine’s Donbas region after joining mercenary forces.

The government stated the men were “lured” into the war by false promises of profitable job contracts.

UNGA 80: Ramaphosa Says Trade Now Used as Weapon — South African mercenaries in Ukraine seek help. Credit: EPA / Lev Radin

Although it remains unclear whether they fought for Russian or Ukrainian forces, their involvement is illegal under South African law, which prohibits citizens from joining foreign armies without official authorisation.

In response to the situation, President Cyril Ramaphosa has launched an official investigation into how these recruitment efforts were executed.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.