Ukraine, Germany Deny Russian Claim of Filipino Recruitment for Ukraine War

Overview

• The Ukraine Embassy in Manila rejected the Russian Foreign Ministry’s assertion, calling it a baseless fabrication and part of a propaganda campaign in Southeast Asia.
• Germany’s ambassador to the Philippines also dismissed the claim and said Schengen visas do not authorize employment, adding the embassy issues work visas only for jobs in Germany.
• Russia’s Maria Zakharova had alleged that a Florida-based firm, RMS International, was recruiting Filipinos, especially ex-police and retired military personnel, to fight for Ukraine.
• The Russian statement, reported by state outlets, claimed recruits were promised about $5,000 per month, trained by American instructors, and provided Schengen work visas via the German Embassy in Manila.
• The Ukraine Embassy cited a previously debunked, similar narrative about South Korea and said the new allegation lacks factual foundation and independent corroboration.