President Ruto demands the release of Kenyans allegedly tricked into the Russia-Ukraine war

The Kenyan president recently requested that the Ukrainian government free the Kenyans currently being held in Ukraine.

Ruto’s appeal results from growing distress calls from Africans in Ukraine, who have noted that they are being persuaded to join the Russia/Ukraine war under fraudulent premises.

During a phone call with the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as seen on Tuko, Ruto conveyed his profound concern over the situation of Kenyans who might have been tricked into joining the war.

Both presidents pledged to collaborate on eliminating illicit recruitment routes and shielding young people who are at risk from exploitation.

In a statement posted on X on Thursday, November 6, Ruto expressed gratitude for Zelenskyy’s promise that Ukraine will investigate the situation and take the required actions to ensure the release of any Kenyans who were being held.

“I have requested President Zelensky to facilitate the release of any Kenyan in Ukrainian custody. I am grateful to His Excellency for acceding to my appeal,” Ruto said.

In a statement from Kyiv, the Ukrainian president acknowledged the concern and thanked Kenya for its ongoing assistance during what he called Russia’s “criminal war.”

He stated that both nations would continue to discuss humanitarian and economic issues and boost their collaboration through their respective ministries.

“I had a productive conversation with the President of Kenya, William Ruto. I informed him about Russia’s attacks on people and infrastructure, and I am grateful for his warm words of support.

We touched upon the issue of Russia’s recruitment of foreign citizens into its criminal war.

We are aware of all the fraudulent methods being used and will work more closely to put an end to them,” Zelenskyy stated.

“We paid special attention to the issue of Ukrainian children.

This month, at the United Nations, Ukraine will submit a resolution condemning Russia’s illegal abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children. I am grateful that we can count on Kenya’s support,” he added.