Kenyan Man Claims He Was Tricked into Joining Russian Army, Captured in Ukraine

Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-18 17:15 EAT. A man identifying himself as Evans, allegedly Kenyan, has told Ukrainian forces he was deceived into joining the Russian military after travelling to Russia as a tourist, raising alarm over the exploitation of foreign nationals in the Russia–Ukraine war

The Latest

• Evans claims he was offered accommodation in Russia, then asked to sign documents later revealed as enlistment papers.

• His passport and phone were confiscated before being taken to a training centre and then a military camp.

• He fled and surrendered to Ukrainian troops, who provided him food and water.

Context in Brief

• Evans says he never served in the military and was unaware he was being recruited.

• The Kenyan government has not yet confirmed his identity or commented on the case.

• President William Ruto has repeatedly condemned the Russia–Ukraine conflict, urging dialogue and respect for national sovereignty

Law, Policy, and Process

• International law: Geneva Conventions protect civilians and POWs from coercion into armed conflict.

• Kenya’s position: Supports diplomatic resolution and adherence to UN Charter on territorial integrity.

• Consular obligations: If confirmed Kenyan, government may invoke Vienna Convention rights for citizen assistance abroad.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Evans (captured man): Claimed he was “tricked into signing” enlistment forms without knowing consequences.

• President Ruto: “Kenya believes in resolving conflicts through negotiation”

• Observers: Warn about human trafficking risks tied to conflict zones.

Evidence & Data

• Video source: Kyiv Independent shared Evans’ testimony

• Timeline: Evans travelled as tourist → signed papers → deployed → fled → captured by Ukrainians.

Risks and Implications

• For Kenya: Possible consular crisis if more nationals lured into war.

• For travellers: Highlights need for vigilance in countries with active conflicts.

• For diplomacy: May strain relations with Russia if exploitation claims confirmed.

What We Don’t Know

• Whether Evans is a verified Kenyan citizen.

• If he will be treated as a prisoner of war or civilian victim.

• How many other foreigners face similar circumstances in Russia.

Timeline

• 2025-09-17: Video of Evans shared by Kyiv Independent.

• 2025-09-18: Kenyan government yet to respond.

What to Watch

• Kenyan Foreign Ministry response on Evans’ case.

• Ukrainian investigations into forced recruitment by Russia.

• Diplomatic implications if Russian authorities implicated.