News / National
Zimbabwe urged to rescue citizens trapped in Ukraine-Russia war
2 hrs ago |
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Seasoned Zimbabwean journalist Ezra Tshisa Sibanda says he has formally contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade urging authorities to intervene and assist Zimbabweans allegedly trapped in the ongoing war following Russian invasion of Ukraine.
In a letter dated March 10, 2026, Sibanda said several Zimbabwean men were allegedly deceived by recruitment agents who promised them lucrative jobs in Russia, including truck driving, security, and cleaning work. The recruits were reportedly told they would receive a once-off payment of about US$37,000 and a monthly salary of US$4,000.
However, according to testimonies received by Sibanda, the situation changed after the men arrived in Russia. Their passports were allegedly confiscated and, instead of being taken to workplaces, they were transported to military barracks where they underwent basic firearms training for about two weeks before being deployed to the frontline in Donetsk.
Sibanda said the Zimbabweans reported experiencing heavy fighting, including drone attacks, with some allegedly killed and others seriously injured. He also said some of the men received little or no medical care despite their injuries.
According to the accounts he received, the recruits claim they are not allowed to leave their positions and fear severe consequences if they attempt to escape.
Sibanda also said the financial promises made to the men were largely not fulfilled. Instead of receiving the agreed payments, some families reportedly received only about US$1,000 once.
He has urged the Zimbabwean government to urgently engage authorities in Russia to locate the affected citizens, ensure their safety, and facilitate their return home. Sibanda said he has names of the alleged recruitment agents as well as contact details of some of the Zimbabweans believed to be trapped in the conflict and is prepared to share the information to assist investigations and possible rescue efforts.
In a letter dated March 10, 2026, Sibanda said several Zimbabwean men were allegedly deceived by recruitment agents who promised them lucrative jobs in Russia, including truck driving, security, and cleaning work. The recruits were reportedly told they would receive a once-off payment of about US$37,000 and a monthly salary of US$4,000.
However, according to testimonies received by Sibanda, the situation changed after the men arrived in Russia. Their passports were allegedly confiscated and, instead of being taken to workplaces, they were transported to military barracks where they underwent basic firearms training for about two weeks before being deployed to the frontline in Donetsk.
Sibanda said the Zimbabweans reported experiencing heavy fighting, including drone attacks, with some allegedly killed and others seriously injured. He also said some of the men received little or no medical care despite their injuries.
According to the accounts he received, the recruits claim they are not allowed to leave their positions and fear severe consequences if they attempt to escape.
Sibanda also said the financial promises made to the men were largely not fulfilled. Instead of receiving the agreed payments, some families reportedly received only about US$1,000 once.
He has urged the Zimbabwean government to urgently engage authorities in Russia to locate the affected citizens, ensure their safety, and facilitate their return home. Sibanda said he has names of the alleged recruitment agents as well as contact details of some of the Zimbabweans believed to be trapped in the conflict and is prepared to share the information to assist investigations and possible rescue efforts.
Source - online
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