There was no coercion, say SA men fighting for Russia in Ukraine

CONTRADICTING CLAIMS

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

SOUTH African men who travelled to Russia and later became linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict say they were not coerced or misled, contradicting claims that they were lured into combat.

Sbusiso Zuma, one of the men, described his experience and the broader situation in Russia:

"I travelled voluntarily and was not forced to join the trip. We departed openly from King Shaka International Airport in Durban.

"No passports were confiscated, and no one was compelled to take part in combat. We were treated with respect by Russian authorities and no one was deceived or pressured into leaving South Africa."

Russia is preparing militarily for any eventuality, especially in light of the US’ aggression. The country would not be releasing any of its trainees or trained militia."

"We are not allowed to speak to the media. On the first day, the main issue was that our contracts were written in Russian. Yes, some of us miss home, and the conditions are tough. But we were not misled."