8 Indonesian Citizens Suspected of Joining Russian Military to Fight Ukraine, Foreign Ministry Responds
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) has stated that the Indonesian Government is verifying information regarding Indonesian citizens suspected of joining the Russian armed forces through Indonesian representatives and is coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies.
“Information regarding the identity, citizenship status, recruitment process, and form of involvement of the individuals mentioned still needs to be further confirmed,” said Kemlu spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang in a written statement in Jakarta on Monday, 31 August 2026.
However, if the involvement of these Indonesian citizens is verified, Yvonne added, it would constitute an individual act and does not represent the policy or position of the Indonesian Government.
Yvonne also stated that the Indonesian Government will further investigate the possibility of fraud, exploitation, or recruitment through job offers that do not match their actual purpose.
“If there are Indonesian citizens who become victims in this process, the Indonesian Government will take the necessary protective measures in accordance with applicable legal provisions,” Yvonne stressed.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also emphasised that Indonesia has clear legal provisions regarding the involvement of Indonesian citizens in foreign military service, including the consequences for their citizenship status, the implementation of which is based on verified facts and in accordance with applicable legal procedures.
The Indonesian Government also urged Indonesian citizens to be cautious of job offers in conflict areas or offers that could potentially involve them in foreign military activities.
“Indonesia remains consistent in encouraging a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and emphasises the importance of respecting the principles of the UN Charter and international law,” said Yvonne.
It was previously reported that Russia has recruited at least eight Indonesian citizens into its armed forces to fight in the war against Ukraine, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service in a report published on 27 August via Telegram.
According to The New Voice of Ukraine on Monday, the agency stated that it had obtained documents confirming the recruitment.
The media outlet said the effort has enabled the Kremlin to bolster its troop strength by utilising foreign nationals as part of its propaganda.