Russia recruiting mercenaries in Africa for war against Ukraine through “Russian Houses” – CCD

25.01.2026 00:42

Ukrinform

Russia has stepped up the activities of so-called “Russian Houses” in African countries, using them not only as centers for promoting Russian influence under the guise of cultural diplomacy, but also as hubs for recruiting mercenaries to fight against Ukraine.

According to Ukrinform, this was reported on Facebook by the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.

Nigerian media note that “Russian Houses” have become part of a shadow infrastructure that fuels the war against Ukraine by using ideological manipulation and deception.

Russian propaganda portrays “Russian Houses” in Africa as organizations that promote the Russian language and culture on the continent. In reality, however, these structures – created by the state-run agency Rossotrudnichestvo – are actively engaged in destructive activities.

“They justify Russia’s aggressive policies, advance Russian influence, and promote hatred toward the West, spreading a distorted perception of reality among the local population,” the CCD stated.

As reported by Ukrinform, migrant women from Central Asian countries in Russian prisons are being offered “release” in exchange for being sent to the combat zone.