South Africa brings home citizens caught in Russia’s war, raising questions about international influence and national security.
Eleven South African men deceived into fighting alongside Russian forces against Ukraine are finally heading home, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed Tuesday. The group was allegedly lured under the false promise of security training, only to find themselves trapped on the front lines in Ukraine’s embattled Donbas region. Their repatriation brings the total rescued nationals to 15, with two more still in Russia awaiting clearance. Ramaphosa confirmed their return was secured through direct diplomatic channels with Russia. The South African government is now investigating those involved in the recruitment scheme, including former President Jacob Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. The men, aged 20 to 39, endured months of combat before making desperate distress calls home. Their ordeal mirrors a troubling pattern of African citizens being drawn into the conflict.
AP