Gaborone, Botswana — The Government of Botswana is investigating reports that two of its citizens, aged 19and 20, were allegedly misled into participating in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine after being promised what they believed to be legitimate military training in Russia.

 

Officials have said the men were reportedly recruited under the pretext of joining a short-term military training programme in Russia, only to find themselves fighting in the conflict. Gaborone’s Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation has confirmed it is working with law enforcement and diplomatic channels to verify the details of the claims, determine the men’s whereabouts and wellbeing, and facilitate their return home.

 

In a statement issued Monday, the ministry cautioned Botswana’s youth to be wary of dubious international recruitment schemes and emphasised that authorities are engaging urgently on the matter.

 

The reports come amid wider concerns in the southern African region about young people being recruited under false pretences to serve in Russia’s war effort. In neighbouring South Africa, government investigations continue into cases involving South African citizens believed to have been similarly misled into fighting in Ukraine. Families there have expressed deep distress over a separate group of around 17 South Africans who were promised employment and training opportunities but ended up in combat zones, prompting diplomatic efforts for their repatriation.

 

Botswana’s authorities have not yet confirmed how the two youths were recruited, who organised their travel, or which forces they are understood to have joined. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as diplomatic enquiries progress.