Panama Investigates Recruitment of Citizens for Ukraine War Combat

Panamanian officials have revealed that at least 15 of their nationals have been recruited to fight in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The government reported the death of one citizen involved and issued a warning about the lethal risks associated with such participation.

The Panamanian Foreign Ministry stated it is conducting an investigation into the involvement of its citizens in the conflict, which began in February 2022, following complaints from families claiming their relatives are engaged in the fighting.

Acting Foreign Minister Carlos Arturo Hoyos confirmed that since 2025, no fewer than 15 Panamanian nationals have been recruited to fight in the war, although he did not specify which side they are aligned with.

Speaking to Telemeter television, Hoyos explained that some recruits were fully aware of what they were undertaking, while others felt deceived, believing they would be employed as private security guards or drivers in construction sites.

He added, "People must be cautious and recognize that this could be dangerous, even deadly," noting that one individual has died and several others remain missing.

Presidential Minister Juan Carlos Urriola described the situation as a "shame," emphasizing that neither the Panamanian government nor its president have any connection to these events. He stated, "We do not approve of this, we are not involved, and we have no intention of allowing it to happen."

The Public Prosecutor's Office announced it has received complaints related to the matter and is conducting two investigations to determine if any violations have occurred within Panama.

The Panamanian Foreign Ministry also indicated it has repeatedly requested information from both the Russian and Ukrainian embassies regarding the issue and has raised the matter with Moscow and Kyiv. Russian authorities reportedly responded that the contracts were signed voluntarily and were the result of individual decisions by those who signed them.