Russia denies recruiting Colombian mercenaries to fight alongside it in Ukraine

The Russian Embassy in Colombia issued a denial on Wednesday of a report alleging ties between the embassy and networks suspected of recruiting Colombian mercenaries to assist in its war with Ukraine.

The Russian diplomatic mission in Colombia refuted the report’s accuracy, stating on Wednesday that it “has no connection with the recruitment entities mentioned in the report and has no idea whatsoever how their activities are funded.”

Last November, Russia sentenced two Colombians to 13 years in prison for fighting alongside Ukrainian forces.

For his part, outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro insists that at least 7,000 Colombians are fighting in Russia and Ukraine for money.

In March, the United Nations estimated that at least 10,000 Colombians had been recruited abroad to participate in armed conflicts around the world, often under “inhumane conditions.”

Colombian soldiers often struggle to find employment after retiring from military service.