Panama addresses recruitment of citizens for Russia-Ukraine war

Panamanian officials are addressing reports of citizens being recruited to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war, often under false pretenses. Panama's Ambassador, Carmen Inés Ávila Ortega, met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Serguéi Riabkov to discuss bilateral issues and intensify political dialogue regarding the situation.

Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha stated that approximately 30 Panamanian nationals are involved in the conflict, with 20 on the Russian side and 10 on the Ukrainian side. At least one death has been reported. The Panamanian Prosecutor's Office has opened investigations into how these individuals ended up in the war zone, following allegations that many were deceived by third-party recruiters.

Families of those involved have reported that individuals were lured by job offers in construction or cleaning sectors, only to be transported to Russia and forced to sign contracts under threat. One mother reported that her son, Alexander Delgado, was promised work in France but was instead moved to Russian territory and sent to the front lines. Reports indicate that some recruits have had their passports confiscated and face poor living conditions while being trained for combat.