Russia bans recruitment of mercenaries from “friendly” countries
The Russian authorities have compiled a list of at least 36 countries whose citizens are prohibited from signing contracts with the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation starting in 2026.
According to an investigation by Vazhlyvi Istorii, the “stop-list” primarily includes countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia that were previously considered the main sources of foreign manpower for the Russian military. Key countries on the list include China, India, South Africa, Brazil, Turkey, Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba.
The decision to restrict mercenary recruitment is reportedly the result of diplomatic pressure from these governments, which demand the return of their citizens and an end to illegal enlistment. Notably, Kenya—previously a source of around 1,000 fighters—was added to the list. In February 2026, the list was expanded to include Argentina, Iraq, Yemen, Cameroon, Colombia, Libya, and Somalia, according to reports from recruitment centers and foreign bloggers.
Despite these restrictions, Russia continues to employ foreigners in military industries, particularly in Tatarstan, where young women from African countries are involved in assembling “Shahed” strike drones. Additionally, a North Korean contingent remains active, numbering up to 15,000 personnel. International observers estimate that as of 2025, fighters from 48 countries served with Russia, many claiming they were recruited through fraudulent employment schemes or deception.
In December alone, Russia enlisted over 150 foreigners from 25 countries, with around 200 more preparing to join, according to Oleh Ivashchenko, head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service.
Citizens of Bangladesh have reportedly been lured to Russia under the pretext of civilian work, only to be forced to fight in Ukraine. Meanwhile, authorities in Kenya uncovered a network recruiting people for the Russian army.
