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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2026/2641(RSP))

On Human trafficking and grave human rights violations linked to the recruitment of non-Russian nationals, in particular Africans, for Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine

B-10-2026-0157

on behalf of The Left Group · Rapporteur: Hanna Gedin, Jonas Sjöstedt

✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

Parliament expresses grave concern over documented recruitment practices targeting nationals from Africa and other regions for Russia's war in Ukraine, condemning these as human trafficking and forced labour. It stresses that ending Russia's war is essential to stopping these abuses, calls on member states to protect victims, and reaffirms support for international accountability.

Key points

  1. Expresses grave concern over recruitment practices targeting Africans and others for combat or work in Russia's military-industrial complex.
  2. Condemns these practices as human trafficking and forced labour, noting they violate international law and ILO conventions.
  3. Calls on the EU to work towards ending Russia's war in accordance with international law.
  4. Expresses solidarity with victims and calls on member states to ensure their protection and assistance.
  5. Reaffirms support for international accountability mechanisms addressing violations linked to Russia's war.
  6. Underlines that the use of foreign mercenaries increases risks of human rights violations and impunity, noting foreign recruits are often seen as expendable.

Who is affected

  • Non-Russian nationals, particularly Africans, recruited for Russia's war in Ukraine.
  • Member states are called on to protect and assist victims.

Figures and deadlines

  • At least 1,780 Africans from 36 countries are fighting alongside the Russian army.
  • Approximately 18,000 foreign fighters from 128 countries have been recruited.