Zimbabwe has announced that 15 of its nationals have been killed after being recruited to fight for Russia in its ongoing war with Ukraine, with more than 60 still trapped on the frontlines. Information Minister Zhemu Soda stated that the Zimbabweans had been lured by shadowy agencies promising lucrative jobs abroad, primarily using social media platforms as their hunting ground. 'It is a sophisticated scheme of deception, exploitation, and human trafficking that has already resulted in the loss of Zimbabwean lives,' he remarked. The Zimbabwean government is currently engaged in discussions with Russian authorities to ensure the repatriation of the deceased and to secure the safe return of those still alive. This is the first instance where the Zimbabwean government has officially acknowledged its citizens' involvement in military service for Russia. Soda also cautioned Zimbabweans against overseas job offers, advising them to verify opportunities through official channels. He warned that recruiters often vanish once a recruit suffers injury, capture, or death, leaving families without support or information. Zimbabwe's situation reflects a broader pattern of African nationals being drawn into combat roles, with similar incidents reported in countries like Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. A Ukrainian intelligence assessment estimates that over 1,700 individuals from 36 African countries have been recruited to fight on behalf of Russia. Reports indicate Kenya estimates 252 citizens have been illegally conscripted in Russia, prompting a recent commitment from Kenyan authorities to halt such deployments. Similarly, Ghana confirmed the deaths of 55 of its citizens in the conflict, with around 272 believed to have been recruited since the war began in 2022. South Africa recently managed to secure the return of 17 nationals who were allegedly deceived into joining the fight.