Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-15 18:11:32
Foreign Affairs Principal Korir Sing’oei has strongly refuted the allegations made by the Russian Ministry of Defence claiming that five Kenyans were involved in fighting against Russian soldiers in Ukraine. In a statement released on Friday, March 15, Sing’oei emphasized that Kenya abides by a foreign policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. He also highlighted Kenya’s stance on advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts between nations.
Sing’oei referenced Kenya’s commitment to international agreements such as the 1989 United Nations Convention on International Convention against Recruitment, Use, Financing, and Training of Mercenaries, as well as the 1977 OAU Convention for the Elimination of Mercenaries in Africa. These agreements serve as the foundation for Kenya’s rejection of the allegations and disassociation from any claims of mercenary presence and activities in Ukraine.
The Russian Federation reportedly alleged that 13,387 foreign soldiers had traveled to Ukraine since February 2024 to support the fight against Russia, with 249 of these individuals said to have originated from 13 African countries. Among these soldiers, 103 were reportedly killed in action. However, specific details regarding the fate of the purported five Kenyans were not disclosed by the Federation.
According to the information provided by the Federation, Kenya is singled out as the sole East African country with soldiers present in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Nigeria had the highest number of soldiers involved, with 97 reported casualties, while Algeria and South Africa followed with 60 and 14 casualties respectively. Guinea and Senegal each reported four fatalities from their respective soldiers engaged in the conflict.
Despite these claims, Sing’oei reiterated Kenya’s commitment to non-interference in the affairs of other states and emphasized the importance of peaceful conflict resolution. Kenya’s engagement with other countries on the global stage continues to be guided by these principles, underscoring the country’s dedication to upholding diplomatic norms and fostering peaceful international relations.
The statement from Sing’oei serves as a firm rebuttal to the allegations made by the Russian Ministry of Defence, asserting Kenya’s adherence to established international conventions and its commitment to maintaining a stance of neutrality and non-involvement in foreign conflicts.
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