How an 'innocent' mistake landed Kenyan athlete on the frontline as part of Russia's army: Video

It sounded like the chance of a lifetime. But once he landed, things changed fast. His visa expired. His host offered him paperwork to sign, saying it was for a job that would allow him to stay.

However, Kibet says those papers were to enlist him in the Russian military.

After that, he says, his passport and phone were seized. He was moved to a military camp, where he was told he had one choice: fight or face death.

Fleeing the journey to his first mission, he approached Ukrainian soldiers with his hands up, pleading, “I’m Kenyan, don’t shoot.” He is now held in Ukraine, where he repeats that he never intended to join the military. His insights, posted by the Ukrainian army, remain unverified independently.

Russia’s foreign ministry has denied allegations that it uses visa renewals to coerce or trick foreign nationals into combat roles. Still, Evans’ story fits a pattern that international investigators and media outlets say is emerging.

By mid-2024, investigative outlet The Insider reported that over 600 African nationals were fighting for Russia. Many alleged coercion or deceit in how they were recruited.

Some accepted offers of high pay, passports, or promises of education and jobs. Others say they were lured in under false pretences.

Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) has issued reports that Moscow has intensified recruitment campaigns in African countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, Congo, and Burundi. Promised benefits include monthly pay, health insurance, and Russian citizenship for recruits and even their families.

Still, many recruited under such terms find themselves in life-or-death situations, with few avenues for escape or return. Evans’ case brings a human face to what researchers say is a growing global concern.