Mudavadi: 354 Kenyans went missing after travelling to Russia

Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenyan government reports that 84 of its citizens have been killed or are missing as a result of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while 354 Kenyans have been identified as involved in the war. Among these, 77 are currently on the front lines, 38 are in military camps, 52 are in unknown locations, 34 are hospitalized, and 62 have been repatriated to Kenya.

Five Kenyans are held as prisoners of war in Ukraine, and one is in detention. Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi stated that families typically reach out after losing contact with relatives in Russia, emphasizing the importance of early reporting for tracing and verification efforts. Ukrainian authorities have confirmed the detention of five Kenyans as prisoners of war since May 2025 through March 2026.

The Kenyan government is working to have these individuals classified as potential victims of human trafficking due to false recruitment promises. Additionally, 62 Kenyans have been repatriated, and efforts are ongoing to locate the remains of four Kenyans believed to be in Ukrainian custody. The government has also secured a measure to prevent further recruitment of Kenyans into Russia's military operation, ensuring no new enlistments since its implementation.