Russia Denies Recruiting Indonesians Amid Military Allegations

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Russian ambassador to Indonesia has firmly denied allegations of military recruitment, stressing that no Russian representative office in the country engages in enlistment activities. The statement comes amid reports that eight Indonesian citizens may have joined Russia’s armed forces.

“Russian offices in Indonesia do not conduct recruitment for the military,” Ambassador Sergei Tolchenov said in Jakarta on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, after a press conference event in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara.

Tolchenov acknowledged that some foreign nationals--including workers, students, and even tourists--have voluntarily joined Russia’s military while residing there, but emphasized such decisions are personal and not facilitated by embassies.

“There are indeed foreigners in the Russian military, but embassies are not involved in recruiting them,” he added.

The ambassador confirmed awareness of Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry investigation into the alleged involvement of eight Indonesians. He pledged cooperation if requested. “If they want to ask us anything, we are ready to explain and work together," he said.

The allegations surfaced after Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service claimed on August 27 that eight Indonesians had been recruited to fight in Russia’s war against Ukraine, citing supporting documents. Ukrainian media suggested the move was part of Kremlin propaganda to bolster troop numbers with foreign nationals.

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang said the government is verifying the reports through its diplomatic missions and coordinating with relevant agencies. She noted authorities are also examining whether the Indonesians may have been misled by fraudulent job offers or exploitation schemes. ***