Kenya has received firm assurances from the Russian government that no Kenyan citizens will be forcibly conscripted into Russia’s security forces. This commitment was confirmed by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei on Tuesday after high-level bilateral talks with Russian Ambassador to Kenya, Vsevolod Tkachenko, in Nairobi.
During the meeting, the Russian Federation reaffirmed its official policy against the forced conscription of foreign nationals. “I am grateful for the assurances of the Russian Federation of her policy of intolerance towards involuntary recruitment of non-nationals into their security forces,” Sing’oei stated.
The announcement brings relief to Kenyans in Russia amid growing international concern over the recruitment of foreign nationals in global conflicts. The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including migration, peace, and enhanced cooperation between the two countries.
Sing’oei commended Russia for its long-standing solidarity with Africa during the continent’s anti-colonial struggles and its continued support for Kenya in multilateral forums. He also reiterated Kenya’s position on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, calling for a peaceful and negotiated resolution to end civilian suffering.
Another key outcome of the talks was an agreement to develop a framework for regular migration between Kenya and Russia. Once established, this framework will enable safe, transparent, and lawful movement of students and skilled professionals between the two nations.
Sing’oei emphasized that the welfare of Kenyans abroad remains a top foreign policy priority. He noted that bilateral frameworks such as this are crucial for safeguarding citizens while deepening cooperation in education, trade, and technical training.
The PS also revealed that the government is working closely with Ukrainian authorities to repatriate Kenyans who were reportedly captured while fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war, saying they were victims of manipulation and human trafficking.
