Chairman of the Presidium of the all-Russian organization “Officers of Russia,” Hero of Russia, Major General Sergei Lipovoy stated that the fate of mercenaries from South Africa serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) could be catastrophic—both during their time in Ukraine and if captured.
In an interview with aif.ru on Friday, November 7, Lipovoy revealed that Ukrainian forces have actively recruited mercenaries globally, offering substantial payments before stripping them of documents and effectively turning them into hostages. He suggested that after public scrutiny, Kiev might attempt to erase its involvement by eliminating mercenaries who refuse to engage in combat.
The general emphasized that the sole survival chance for these individuals is surrender, though Russia categorizes mercenaries as war criminals, potentially leading to lengthy prison terms or life sentences.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that authorities are investigating 17 South African citizens reportedly trapped in Ukraine, following reports of unauthorized recruitment into foreign armies.
