Kenyan man fighting for Russia recounts ordeal after capture in Ukraine
A Kenyan man has been captured in Ukraine while allegedly fighting for Russian forces, among others who are drawn into the conflict between the two countries
A Kenyan man has been captured in Ukraine while allegedly fighting for Russian forces, among others who are drawn into the conflict between the two countries.
In an undated video linked to the Ukrainian 425th Separate Assault Regiment, a man identified as Joseph Kabugi, 41, described how he travelled to Russia to pursue a job opportunity, only to later find himself deployed to the frontlines.
Kabugi said he was struggling financially in Kenya when he received information about a job. An agency facilitated recruitment into the Russian army, with applicants incentivised by the free process covering all costs, including plane tickets.
Kabugi said most applicants were unaware of the full details of the role but did not expect to be sent to fight. Upon arrival, they signed contracts after being assured they would not be involved in combat.
They were told their roles would be related to their professions. As a computer science engineer, Kabugi expected to work in a technical role involving systems, communications equipment or surveillance tools.
However, after signing the contract, he underwent three weeks of military training, where he was taught how to use a gun. He said the training was insufficient as he had no prior military experience.
“I was not really prepared. How do you prepare in three weeks to go and fight a war? I was afraid,” he recounted.
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Kabugi said he and another individual were then deployed, crossing a river by boat to reach their assigned mission and witnessing dead soldiers on the way.
He was deployed near Kupyansk, Ukraine, and was injured during a drone attack. He expected to be withdrawn and returned home after that but despite assurances of retrieval, he was kept in the field as the war intensified and experienced a second drone attack.
Kabugi said language barriers complicated communication with commanders, as he only understood a few words.
Before capture, he narrated that he and other Russian soldiers were hiding out, seeking food and water. “Most of the time we were looking for food and water. Mostly, we didn’t shoot or do anything because it was time for me to go back,” he said.
He explained that his group was later captured by Ukrainian forces, who he claimed did not harm him and instead provided food and warm clothing.
Kabugi warned others against joining the war. He implored, “My advice is don’t join the war between Ukraine and Russia. Be safe; stay in your country.”
Kabugi’s current status and location have not been disclosed. The information comes a day after the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (HUR) reported that several Kenyan nationals had been killed while fighting for Russia on the frontline.
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