Ministry of Foreign Affairs Investigates Alleged Fraud and Exploitation of Indonesians Becoming Russian Soldiers

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu) is currently investigating allegations of fraud and exploitation involving Indonesian citizens (WNI) who claim to be serving as soldiers in Russia.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with the Indonesian Embassies in Moscow and Kiev, as well as relevant ministries and agencies, to conduct a comprehensive inquiry and verification regarding this issue," said Kemenlu Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang in a statement quoted on Saturday (19/9/2026).

Yvonne explained that information concerning the identities, family status, recruitment processes, and types of involvement of the individuals mentioned still requires further confirmation.

"It is also necessary to monitor news developments and gather information related to the alleged recruitment process, employment contracts, military units, locations, assignments, and activities of these individuals," she added.

Yvonne emphasized that the Indonesian government has clear legal provisions regarding the involvement of WNI in foreign military service without the President's permission.

These legal provisions also include consequences concerning citizenship status in accordance with the applicable laws.

"The implementation is not automatic but follows a determination by the Minister of Law based on the relevant legal framework," she stated.

The Ministry will also investigate the possibility of fraud, exploitation, or recruitment through misleading job offers.

"If there are WNI who have been victimized, we will certainly take the necessary protective measures," Yvonne affirmed.

Kemenlu will coordinate with the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections to investigate allegations of fraudulent elements.

"We need to ensure aspects related to citizenship, legal matters, immigration, as well as the protection and further steps required for the affected WNI," Yvonne said.

She urged the public to be cautious of job offers in conflict zones or those that may involve participation in foreign military activities.

"If the involvement of WNI in foreign military service is verified, it is certainly an individual action that does not represent our policy," she added.

Indonesians Serving as Russian Soldiers

Previously reported, Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service (SZRU) released the identities of eight WNI reportedly serving as soldiers for Russia.

In a report issued on August 27, the SZRU stated that Russia is actively recruiting foreign nationals to fight against Ukraine.