Kenya is seeking compensation for citizens recruited into Russia’s military. President William Ruto raised the issue during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on October 29.
The discussions focused on Kenyans recruited to fight in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Some have reportedly died, while others remain missing.
According to Africanews, Kenya has appointed a Defence Attaché in Moscow. The official will work with Russian authorities to process compensation claims and help bring affected citizens home.
Kenya seeks compensation for military recruits
Ruto said the Defence Attaché would work directly with Russia’s Ministry of Defence.
The official will assist Kenyan families seeking compensation. In addition, the office will support efforts to return citizens still serving in Russia’s military.
However, the government has not announced how much compensation families could receive.
The eligibility requirements and payment timeline also remain unclear.
At least 76 Kenyans reportedly killed
An investigation by Journalists for Justice identified at least 76 Kenyans killed while fighting for Russia.
Researchers also found that 841 Kenyan nationals were recruited between October 2022 and June 2026.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s National Intelligence Service has told Parliament that more than 1,000 citizens were recruited.
The investigation documented more than 3,000 African recruits from 40 countries. It also recorded 502 confirmed deaths by June 2026.
Some Kenyans were reportedly promised civilian jobs in security or logistics. However, they were later required to sign military contracts after arriving in Russia.
These findings have raised concerns about how African nationals are recruited into foreign armed forces.
Russia agrees to stop recruiting Kenyans
Ruto said Russia had agreed to stop recruiting Kenyan citizens into its military.
According to the Kenyan president, Russia has also classified Kenya as a non-source country for military recruitment.
The agreement could help prevent further recruitment. However, neither government has announced how the commitment will be monitored.
For now, Kenya’s priority is securing compensation and bringing affected citizens home.
Ruto and Putin discuss stronger relations
The two presidents also discussed cooperation beyond military recruitment.
Russia reportedly agreed to increase scholarships for Kenyan students from 70 to 300.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed a possible labour agreement, transport cooperation and diplomatic training.
Ruto also invited Putin to visit Kenya. However, no date has been announced.
The talks show Kenya’s efforts to strengthen relations with Moscow while addressing concerns about its citizens’ involvement in the Ukraine war.
For affected families, compensation and the safe return of their relatives remain the most urgent issues.