Families of 17 SA men trapped in Russia-Ukraine war to speak out

The families of the 17 South African men who were allegedly sent to Russia to fight on behalf of that country in its conflict with Ukraine are set to speak publicly on Tuesday, expressing their frustration over the ongoing struggle to bring their loved ones back home.

The family will hold a media briefing on Tuesday, where they are expected to detail any progress that has been made in getting their relatives back. For the past few months, the families have spoken about the pain they have endured with their loved ones being stuck in the conflict zone, with some even being seriously injured.

One family member, speaking to The Mercury on the condition of anonymity, said the families are having a difficult time as there is almost no progress in ensuring that their loved ones are returned.

“We have been told that they left here illegally. We understand that, but what should be happening is that they should be brought back, and the persons who took them there illegally should be the ones who are dealt with,” the family member stated.

“The situation is very dire for our relatives; some have been severely injured and are now undergoing extensive operations and could even end up in wheelchairs," said the relative. 

The daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, Duduzile Zuma, has been implicated in the travel arrangements of these men. Some of the men have publicly claimed that they had been duped by her and other parties into believing they were going to Russia for security training, only to find themselves stuck in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The matter is currently being investigated by the Hawks after one of her sisters opened a case.

Zuma resigned as a member of parliament, and in turn, it has been reported that she claims she had been duped by other parties that were part of the recruitment scheme that lured these men to Russia.

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