African soldiers fight for Russia as Ukraine rebuilds diplomatic ties in Africa

Russia is recruiting Africans to fight in Ukraine, with at least 1,436 identified individuals from 36 countries serving on Russia's side. Recruitment often exploits high unemployment in African nations, offering lucrative job prospects that turn into forced military service. Russia uses social media and deceptive schemes to lure individuals, confiscating passports upon arrival. Ukraine is actively rebuilding its diplomatic ties in Africa after a 30-year absence, focusing on economic cooperation and presenting itself as a reliable partner.