At least 16 Sri Lankan mercenaries have been killed while fighting in the war between Russia and Ukraine, according to Sri Lanka’s deputy defense minister. The conflict has been ongoing for over two years, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and prompting Moscow to seek more troops globally. In addition to Sri Lankans, soldiers from India and Nepal have also joined the fight, with confirmed deaths of citizens from these countries as well.
An inquiry has been opened in Sri Lanka to investigate the recruitment of its citizens for the conflict. The investigation has so far revealed the participation of 288 retired soldiers from Sri Lanka. Of these individuals, 16 have been confirmed dead. The deputy defense minister did not specify which side of the conflict the soldiers were fighting on, but a ruling party lawmaker suggested that most were recruited to fight alongside the Russian army. Many of those who joined were deceived with promises of high salaries and non-combat roles.
The recruitment of Sri Lankans for the conflict is being viewed as a human trafficking operation by Sri Lankan authorities. Military officers are being warned not to fall for the recruitment tactics used to entice individuals to join the fighting. The Sri Lankan government is in discussions with the Ukrainian and Russian foreign ministries to locate Sri Lankans in both countries and ensure their safe return. As Sri Lanka considers both Russia and Ukraine as important allies, efforts are being made to resolve the delicate issue and bring back those who are involved in the conflict safely.
The participation of Sri Lankan mercenaries in the war between Russia and Ukraine highlights the global impact of the conflict and the recruitment efforts by various parties. The situation also raises concerns about the tactics used to recruit individuals, particularly by offering false promises and luring them into dangerous combat situations. The investigation into the recruitment of Sri Lankans underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance to prevent citizens from being exploited in conflicts outside their own country.
The deaths of Sri Lankan mercenaries and soldiers from other countries in the conflict serve as a tragic reminder of the human toll of war and the sacrifices made by individuals who are drawn into conflicts far from home. The inquiry into the recruitment of Sri Lankans reflects a commitment to holding accountable those responsible for exploiting vulnerable individuals for military purposes. Efforts to locate and ensure the safe return of Sri Lankans involved in the conflict demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and addressing international challenges with diplomacy and care.
