By Pascal Ndegwa - Reporter
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Russia, October 30, 2026 — President William Ruto says Russia will no longer recruit Kenyans into its military. He shared the update after meeting President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow, following the Russia-Africa Summit.
Ruto said Putin confirmed that Kenya has now been placed in a category that bars recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian military. In simple terms, Russia should no longer treat Kenya as a source of military recruits.
The President also said Kenya has appointed a Defence Attaché at its Embassy in Moscow. This is a military official who works closely with another country’s defence ministry. Ruto said the official will work with Russia’s Ministry of Defence to help Kenyans who travelled to Russia for military-related purposes return home safely.
The Attaché will also handle compensation for Kenyans who were injured or lost loved ones through the recruitment process. Many families have spent months worrying about relatives who left Kenya after promises of jobs or better opportunities, only to end up in military service. For a parent still waiting for news, this is not just a diplomatic agreement. It is about whether their child will finally come home.
Ruto said the two leaders also discussed education opportunities for young Kenyans. Russia will increase scholarships from 70 to 300 in areas such as health, artificial intelligence, technology, aviation, and cyber security.
The leaders also talked about expanding the United Nations Office in Nairobi, which Ruto described as the only UN headquarters in the developing world. According to the President, Putin promised to support that expansion.
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Kenya and Russia also agreed to negotiate a labour agreement that would allow Kenyans to live and work in Russia. If done well, it could open safer and legal routes for Kenyan workers. But families and rights groups will want clear protections against fake job offers, unfair contracts, and exploitation.
During the summit, the two countries signed five agreements to strengthen their relationship. These cover economic cooperation, labour inspection and employment, transport, visa-free travel for diplomatic and service passport holders, and diplomatic training.
Ruto also invited Putin to visit Kenya, saying the visit would reflect the growing ties between the two countries.
For now, the real test is whether these promises turn into action. Kenyans will be watching for clear numbers, timelines, and proof that those affected are actually being brought home and compensated.