Kampala, Uganda – Security agencies have intercepted a group of 100 Ugandans allegedly recruited to fight in the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict, officials have confirmed.
The recruits, all with prior military experience, reportedly included veterans of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) as well as former private military contractors who had previously served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
According to security sources, the group had been promised lucrative salaries of up to $6,250 (approximately sh22.2 million) per month to join combat operations on behalf of Russia. Recruitment is said to have been conducted through informal networks and contacts linked to private military companies.
Authorities have not disclosed where the group was intercepted, but investigations are underway to establish the full network behind the recruitment drive.
The development comes days after CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba issued a stern warning that Ugandans are strictly prohibited from joining foreign wars, particularly the Russia–Ukraine conflict, and that anyone caught doing so would face severe punishment.
Uganda’s laws criminalise participation in foreign military activities without official clearance, with penalties including imprisonment.
Security officials have urged Ugandans to remain vigilant against offers of foreign combat recruitment, warning that such engagements often involve high risks, legal consequences, and exploitation.
