Cameroon Confirms Deaths of 16 'Military Contractors' in Ukraine Conflict

Cameroonians Killed in Ukraine

The Cameroonian government has confirmed the deaths of sixteen of its nationals fighting for Russia in Ukraine. A foreign ministry source verified the authenticity of a recently leaked diplomatic note, which circulated on social media, detailing these fatalities. This marks the first official acknowledgement by Cameroon regarding its citizens' participation in the conflict, following criticism over its prolonged silence.

The leaked note, addressed from Cameroon's foreign ministry to the Russian embassy and dated 5th March, identifies the deceased as "military contractors." While official statements from Cameroon have been scarce, the state broadcaster CRTV aired a statement listing the names of 16 Cameroonians resident in Russia, requesting relatives to make contact regarding an urgent matter.

Reports from All Eyes on Wagner, a group monitoring mercenary activities, indicate a higher figure, suggesting 94 Cameroonians have died in the war between 2023 and 2025. Ukrainian intelligence estimates suggest over 1,700 individuals from 36 African nations have been recruited to fight for Russia.

Several African nations have expressed concern regarding their citizens being lured to fight in Ukraine. Ghana has urged Russia to cease recruitment, reporting at least 55 Ghanaian fatalities. Kenya has closed over 600 recruitment agencies suspected of deceiving its citizens, with 16 Kenyans currently missing in Russia. Zimbabwe has also reported 15 nationals killed and over 60 still trapped on the front lines, while South Africa repatriated 17 citizens earlier this year who were deceived into fighting for Russia.