Overview
- Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Pretoria is using diplomatic channels to secure the men’s return after receiving distress calls.
- The 17, aged 20 to 39, were reportedly lured with lucrative job offers to join mercenary forces in the Donbas.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered an investigation into the recruitment and condemned the exploitation of young, vulnerable people.
- South Africa’s Foreign Military Assistance Act prohibits citizens from providing military help to foreign forces without authorization.
- The case unfolds as the government faces criticism for a mediation-leaning approach to the Russia–Ukraine war, including UN abstentions.