Russian Embassy Clarifies It Did Not Recruit 8 Indonesians as Soldiers

sajadi Editor : Widi - Wednesday, 9 September 2026 - 21:00 WIB

Wednesday, 9 September 2026 - 21:00 WIB

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Jakarta, MINA – The Russian Embassy in Jakarta has denied involvement in recruiting eight Indonesian citizens allegedly joining the Russian armed forces.

Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov on Tuesday emphasized that the Russian diplomatic mission does not recruit foreign nationals for Russian military service. The statement came after Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service claimed to have found documents concerning at least eight Indonesians recruited into Russian military ranks.

Ukrainian intelligence claimed the Indonesians were initially offered high-paying jobs, non-combat positions, and the possibility of obtaining Russian citizenship. The Indonesian government is currently verifying these claims.

Tolchenov did not deny that foreign nationals have joined the Russian military while in the country. According to him, they come from various backgrounds, including workers, students, and tourists. However, the decision to join is a personal choice and not the result of recruitment by the Russian Embassy.

“The embassy is absolutely not involved in recruiting foreign nationals for the Russian armed forces,” Tolchenov said. He also stated that the Russian Embassy is ready to provide explanations and cooperate if Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires information to confirm the status or whereabouts of the eight Indonesians mentioned in the Ukrainian report.

Meanwhile, Indonesian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang said the government is taking note of the information from Ukrainian authorities. The ministry is conducting verification through Indonesian representatives in Russia and coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies. As such, the identity and status of the eight Indonesians cannot yet be confirmed as verified facts by the Indonesian government.[]

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)