The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine took note of the press release issued by the Ministry of International Relations of the Republic of Botswana on December 15, 2025, regarding alleged reports of two Batswana youths who may have fallen victim to deceptive recruitment schemes linked to Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine.

The MFA of Ukraine regrets that young citizens of Botswana may have been exposed to manipulation and false promises that resulted in their involvement in a foreign war. Since the launch of Russia’s full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, Russia has engaged in the recruitment of foreign nationals, particularly from countries in Africa, through misleading offers presented as training, employment, or other short-term opportunities.

Moreover, this recruitment process, which requires the conclusion of formal contracts and direct interaction with Russia’s Ministry of Defence or the General Staff, clearly demonstrates the involvement of Russian state institutions. These practices cannot be characterized as isolated criminal acts or the work of unauthorized intermediaries. They constitute an organized and systematic policy implemented by the Russian state apparatus as part of an aggressive war against Ukraine, in flagrant violation of the UN Charter, international humanitarian law, and fundamental human rights norms.

Ukraine firmly believes that Batswana youth should not become victims of an unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression waged against a sovereign state. They should not be drawn into combat activities through misinformation, coercion, or financial inducements orchestrated by foreign state structures.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine welcomes and supports the proactive steps taken by the Government of the Republic of Botswana to verify the reported information, engage diplomatic and law enforcement channels, and caution its citizens against dubious international recruitment schemes. These efforts are essential for protecting the lives and rights of Batswana nationals.

Ukraine highly values its relations with the Republic of Botswana and remains ready to maintain close communication with the competent authorities on matters related to the protection of citizens, the prevention of illegal recruitment, and the upholding of international law and accountability. 

We urge all governments in Africa to stay vigilant in the wake of Russia’s systemic campaigns of illegal recruitment, expose such cases, and prevent their citizens from being involved, including through public warnings.