Russia is expanding military recruitment in some of Africa's poorest countries to offset heavy casualties and manpower shortages in Ukraine, according to a Ukrainian intelligence report.
Recruitment increased in Burundi (699 recruits, up from 30 in 2025) and Zimbabwe (530, up from 65), with increases also reported in Sierra Leone, Sudan, Cameroon and DR Congo.
The change follows warnings and objections from some African governments over recruitment practices, including false promises of civilian jobs.
Ukraine says it has identified 45,959 foreigners from 151 countries who signed Russian military contracts, including 5,451 Africans.
Source: Bloomberg