Jakarta Investigates Ukraine's Claim of Indonesians Recruited into Russian Military

Jakarta: The Indonesian government is currently verifying reports from Ukrainian authorities claiming that at least eight Indonesian nationals have been recruited to fight for the Russian armed forces in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine recently released documents alleging that Moscow has expanded its foreign recruitment scheme to include Indonesian citizens.

According to Ukrainian officials, the strategy relies on promises of lucrative salaries, expedited Russian citizenship, and non-combat assignments to attract individuals, who are subsequently sent to active frontlines, a tactic previously reported involving nationals from Nepal, India, Cuba, and Kenya.

In response, Indonesia's Foreign Ministry Spokeswomen Yvonne Mewengkang stated that relevant ministries and diplomatic missions are actively cross-checking the information to confirm the identities, citizenship status, and exact circumstances surrounding the individuals mentioned in the Ukrainian report.

"The Government of Indonesia is closely examining information provided by Ukrainian authorities regarding the alleged involvement of several Indonesian citizens in the armed forces of the Russian Federation," the Yvonne said in an official statement on Monday, August 31, 2026.

“Indonesian law strictly prohibits its citizens from joining foreign military services, with violations carrying severe legal consequences, including the potential revocation of citizenship,” Yvonne added.

Yvonne emphasized that any legal determination will strictly depend on fully verified facts.

Authorities are also looking into whether the individuals were victims of human trafficking, fraudulent job postings, or deceptive recruitment schemes promising non-military employment abroad. The government assured that it will extend protective measures to any citizens found to have been exploited.

"Should the involvement of Indonesian citizens in the aforementioned foreign armed forces be verified, such actions are considered individual acts and do not represent the policy or position of the Government of Indonesia," Yvonne added.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterating Jakarta's neutral stance and continued advocacy for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict through international law and the UN Charter.