Editor's Review

Russia had claimed that five Kenyans were part of the mercenary group fighting its soldiers in Ukraine.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to the allegations by the Russian Ministry of Defence alleging that five Kenyans were fighting against its soldiers in Ukraine.

Russia had claimed that five Kenyans were part of the mercenary group fighting its soldiers in Ukraine.

In a statement issued by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei, Kenya dismissed the claims that five individuals have joined a mercenary group fighting Russian soldiers in Ukraine.

Korir insisted that Kenya does not associate with any mercenary presence and activities in Ukraine.

"The Government of Kenya has noted with concern the allegation that 5 individuals. perceived to be Kenyans, are serving as mercenaries in Ukraine," the statement read in part.

File image of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei. PHOTO | COURTESY

 "As a signatory to the "1989 United Nations Convention on International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries", and the "1977 OAU Convention for the Elimination of Mercenarism in Africa", Kenya rejects the allegations and dissociates herself from any alleged mercenary presence and activities in Ukraine."

Additionally, Korir maintained that Kenya does not interfere with the affairs of other nations as portrayed by Russia. 

He however insisted that Kenya advocates for peaceful conflict resolution between the two nations which have been warring since 2023.

"Kenya's interaction with other State Actors in International Relations continues to be guided by her Foreign Policy of non-interference in affairs of other states, non-alignment as well as peaceful settlement of disputes."