The Presidency has confirmed that a second group of South African men, reportedly recruited to fight for Russia in the war in Ukraine, arrived in Moscow last night and are expected to return home soon.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says four men have already returned to South Africa, while two remain in Russia.

“One is in a Moscow hospital, and the other is being processed before finalising his travel arrangements.”

He added that the South African embassy in Moscow will continue to monitor the man in hospital until he is fit to travel.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since acknowledged Russian President Vladimir Putin’s role in ensuring the men returned home safely.

“President Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Vladimir Putin who responded positively to his call to support the process of returning the men home. President Putin pledged his support during a phone call with President Ramaphosa on 10 February 2026.”

 

Investigations into how these young men were recruited for mercenary activities remain ongoing.