Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is verifying reports that an Indonesian national has joined the Russian armed forces to fight in Ukraine, asserting that any such involvement would be a strictly personal choice and not indicative of state policy.
The verification process is being handled by Indonesian diplomatic missions in coordination with relevant government agencies following reports published by Ukrainian intelligence, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang confirmed on Monday.
“Information regarding the identity, citizenship status, recruitment process, and the specific nature of the individual’s involvement still requires further confirmation,” Yvonne said in a written statement.
She emphasized that if the reports are confirmed, the individual’s actions would not reflect the official stance or policy of the Republic of Indonesia.
The investigation comes after Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service reported via Telegram on August 27 that Russia had recruited at least eight Indonesian citizens into its military ranks. According to a report by The New Voice of Ukraine, Ukrainian officials obtained documents detailing Moscow’s efforts to enlist foreign nationals to bolster its forces and advance state propaganda.
In response, Jakarta is looking into whether human trafficking, deceptive recruitment, or fraudulent job schemes were used to entice Indonesian citizens into military service.
“If any Indonesian citizen has fallen victim to such a process, the Indonesian government will take all necessary protective measures in accordance with applicable laws,” Yvonne stressed.
The spokesperson warned that Indonesian law contains clear provisions regarding citizens who join foreign militaries, noting that such actions carry severe legal consequences, including the potential loss of Indonesian citizenship, once the facts have been fully verified.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reiterated its warning to citizens to exercise extreme caution when considering job offers abroad, particularly those in active conflict zones or positions that could lead to military involvement. Yvonne maintained that Indonesia’s diplomatic position on the war remains unchanged.
“Indonesia stays consistent in promoting a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and emphasizes the vital importance of respecting international law and the principles of the UN Charter,” she said.
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Translator: Cindy Frishanti Octavia, Yashinta Difa
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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