Brazilian Herik Ferreira Soares captured by Russian forces in Ukraine

Herik Ferreira Soares, a 23‑year‑old from Castanhal, Pará, Brazil, appeared in a video released on Russian‑linked channels pleading that he had been taken prisoner by Russian forces in the Ukraine war. In the recording he says he was recruited with promises of a rear‑area support role but was sent to the front line, describing intense combat and expressing regret for joining the conflict. He thanks Russian soldiers for medical care, apologises to his mother, and warns other Brazilians against enlisting for financial gain.

Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) confirmed it is monitoring the case through its embassy in Moscow, maintaining contact with Soares’ family and Russian authorities, and offering consular assistance within the limits of international and domestic law. The ministry reiterated its advice that Brazilians should refuse offers to serve in foreign armies and seek help from diplomatic missions if caught in war zones. No details on his detention conditions or repatriation negotiations have been released.