Zimbabweans recruited by Russia: New figures reveal a sharp increase

The number of Zimbabweans recruited into the Russian military has reportedly increased more than eightfold, raising fresh concerns about citizens being drawn into the war against Ukraine.

According to figures reported by Bloomberg, 530 Zimbabweans signed contracts with the Russian military between January and September 2026, compared with 65 during the whole of 2025.

The figures were contained in a presentation based on Ukrainian intelligence information reviewed by Bloomberg. They have not been independently verified.

The comparison also covers different reporting periods.

Zimbabweans recruited into Russian military

The reported increase comes amid concerns that recruitment networks are targeting African countries by offering financial incentives and promises of civilian employment.

An online advertisement reportedly used in Zimbabwe promoted a programme for local specialists, featuring an African man in military uniform and inviting applicants to complete a test to determine their eligibility.

However, according to Bloomberg‘s reporting, the advertisement did not explicitly state that successful applicants could end up fighting in Ukraine.

The report said recruitment had also increased in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Sudan and Cameroon.

Between January and September 2026, Russia reportedly recruited 699 Burundians, compared with 30 during the whole of 2025.

The figures come as several African governments raise concerns about their citizens being recruited to fight in the conflict.

Zimbabweans allegedly lured by job offers

Zimbabwe’s government confirmed in March 2026 that 15 citizens had died while fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war. Information Minister Zhemu Soda said authorities were working to bring home 66 surviving Zimbabweans.

The government also said it was investigating a suspected trafficking network accused of recruiting citizens to fight abroad.

Investigations by Zimbabwean media outlet CITE documented cases in which people were allegedly attracted by promises of employment and better opportunities before being deployed to the frontlines.

The Associated Press has also reported that some African recruits were promised well-paid civilian jobs and safe working conditions, only to find themselves in combat.

Thousands of Africans reportedly recruited

The latest figures form part of a wider recruitment campaign involving foreign nationals from across the world.

According to Ukrainian intelligence figures cited by Bloomberg, 45 959 foreign nationals from 151 countries had signed contracts with the Russian military, including 5 451 people from African countries.

These figures have not been independently verified.

The growing recruitment drive has prompted concern over the vulnerability of jobseekers seeking better-paying opportunities abroad, particularly when advertisements do not clearly explain the nature of the work.

For Zimbabweans considering overseas employment, the developments underline the importance of verifying employers, contracts and the conditions attached to recruitment offers before travelling.