Captured Ivorian Fighter Says Poverty Drove Him to Join Ukraine as Russia Plans Repatriation

A young Ivorian captured by Russian forces while fighting for Ukraine has reportedly told Russian media that economic hardship in his home country pushed him to enlist with the Ukrainian military.

According to Russian state outlets, the unnamed fighter confessed that he had signed a contract with Ukrainian forces in search of better financial prospects.

He was said to have joined the conflict after being promised steady pay and support a decision he now reportedly regrets following his capture on the front lines.

Russian officials confirmed that the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has contacted Côte d’Ivoire’s ambassador in Moscow to facilitate the young man’s safe repatriation.

Discussions are said to be underway to finalize travel arrangements and ensure he is handed over to Ivorian authorities in the coming days.

As part of the repatriation process, Moscow has announced that the captured fighter will receive a humanitarian support grant of 30,000 rubles to assist with his reintegration and resettlement upon arrival in Abidjan.

The case highlights the growing concern over the presence of foreign volunteers and mercenaries in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Analysts say economic pressures, unemployment, and social instability have driven some young Africans to seek opportunities or survival through military contracts in foreign conflicts.

While Kyiv has relied on international recruits as part of its “International Legion,” Moscow has repeatedly accused Ukraine of exploiting vulnerable migrants to fill its ranks, a claim Ukrainian officials have consistently denied.

Neither the Ivorian government nor the Ukrainian authorities have issued an official statement on the captured fighter’s case as of press time.