Russia Recruits Cuban Mercenaries in Ukraine
CBS News reports videos and passport copies obtained from Ukrainian officials appear to show Cuban nationals captured fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Ukraine estimates as many as 20,000 Cubans have been recruited with one‑year contracts reportedly promising $2,000 a month; Ukrainian sources say at least 39 Cubans have been killed and three are held prisoner while the Cuban government denies official involvement.
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🔍 Key Facts
- Ukrainian officials estimate up to 20,000 Cuban nationals have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine.
- Ukraine says it has compiled passports and lists showing at least 39 Cuban deaths and currently holds three Cuban prisoners of war; CBS obtained videos that appear to show captured Cubans.
- Recruitment reportedly offered one‑year contracts paying about $2,000/month — far above average Cuban wages — and U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz Balart accused the Cuban regime of coordinating recruitment, which Havana denies.