Russian Embassy in Colombia Denies Links to Colombian Mercenary Recruitment for Ukraine War

The Russian embassy in Colombia issued a formal denial on Wednesday regarding a report alleging its involvement with networks suspected of recruiting Colombian mercenaries to support Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

Caracol Noticias investigation details alleged recruitment

Colombian media outlet Caracol Noticias published an investigative report on Monday featuring witness testimonies and documents claiming Moscow had recruited Colombians as part of its strategy against Kyiv.

Diplomatic rejection of allegations

The Russian diplomatic mission in Colombia stated the report is false and clarified it “has no connection whatsoever to the recruitment entities named in the report, nor does it have any knowledge of how their activities are funded.”

Family accounts of abuse and legal consequences

Relatives of Colombian nationals who enlisted for security services abroad — most of them retired military personnel — told AFP they learned their family members suffered mistreatment in both Russia and Ukraine.

In November last year, a Russian court sentenced two Colombians to 13 years’ imprisonment on charges of fighting alongside Ukrainian forces.

Colombian president cites thousands involved

Outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro asserted there are at least 7,000 Colombians fighting in Russia and Ukraine for financial compensation.

UN estimates scale of overseas recruitment

The United Nations estimated in March that at least 10,000 Colombians have been recruited abroad to participate in armed conflicts worldwide, frequently under “inhumane conditions.”

Many Colombian veterans face significant challenges securing employment after leaving military service.