The Russian Embassy in Kenya has confirmed that six civilians were killed and 37 others injured after a Ukrainian missile strike hit the city of Bryansk in Russia. The attack is alleged to have deliberately targeted civilians. The embassy could not confirm if any Kenyan nationals were among the victims.
The Russian Embassy in Kenya issued a statement on March 11, 2026, confirming that a missile strike by Ukraine killed six civilians and injured 37 others in Bryansk, a city in western Russia near the Ukrainian border. "6 civilians were killed and 37 wounded in a missile strike by Ukraine on Bryansk city in Russia. The Kiev regime deliberately targeted civilians," the embassy stated.
The mission urged the international community to intervene and criticized Ukraine for aggression against civilians. This incident occurs amid growing concerns for Kenyan families whose relatives have been recruited to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war, which began on February 24, 2022, and has continued into February 2026.
National Intelligence Service (NIS) reports presented to parliament indicate over 1,000 Kenyans were unlawfully recruited into the Russian army, enticed by promises of up to Ksh350,000 monthly salaries and bonuses exceeding Ksh1.2 million. A February 8 update to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) revealed at least 200 Kenyans deployed to active combat on the front lines.
As of February 2026, authorities reported 39 Kenyans hospitalized, 30 repatriated, 28 missing in action, 35 stationed in camps, and 89 fighting on the front line. Separate tallies suggest at least 10 Kenyans have died, though estimates indicate the number could reach 18, with four others held as prisoners of war in Ukrainian custody.
In one case, the family of Humphrey Kimani has appealed for government intervention after losing contact with him following his travel to Russia and reported enlistment in the Russian army. Relatives note communication has become increasingly difficult in recent weeks, raising fears he may have died in the conflict.
Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Korir Singoei, has met with Russian and Ukrainian diplomats in Nairobi to explore mechanisms for tracing and repatriating affected Kenyan nationals.
