Ruto Urges Ukraine to Free Detained Kenyans and End Illegal Recruitment

• Nov 07, 2025

President William Ruto has called for the immediate release of Kenyan citizens detained in Ukraine, expressing deep concern that some may have been misled or coerced into joining the ongoing conflict. The appeal came during a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where the two leaders discussed the issue of foreign nationals caught up in the war.

Ruto said his government was alarmed by reports suggesting that certain recruitment networks have been targeting young Kenyans with false promises of employment or adventure abroad, only to lure them into military roles in conflict zones. He emphasized that Kenya strongly condemns any form of human trafficking or exploitation involving its citizens and vowed to continue working with international partners to ensure their safety.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, both leaders agreed that such deceptive recruitment efforts pose serious risks to innocent individuals and undermine global efforts to maintain peace and stability. They also discussed ways to raise public awareness about the dangers of these schemes, particularly among job-seeking youth who may fall victim to fraudulent online offers.

President Zelensky assured his Kenyan counterpart that Ukraine is committed to cooperating on the matter and will take the necessary steps to verify the status of any Kenyan nationals currently held in the country. He also expressed appreciation for Kenya’s consistent call for respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of international conflicts.

Ruto reiterated Kenya’s position that all countries must adhere to international law and protect the rights of foreign nationals within their territories. He said his government will continue to monitor the situation closely while providing consular support to affected families.

The discussion also touched on the broader relationship between Kenya and Ukraine, with both presidents agreeing to strengthen diplomatic ties, enhance trade cooperation, and explore collaboration in areas such as agriculture and education.

President Ruto concluded by reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to peace and humanitarian values, stressing that no Kenyan should be manipulated into taking part in wars that have nothing to do with their nation’s interests or principles.