Russia’s Investigative Committee claims to have identified the identities of 18 additional foreign fighters alleged to be serving with the Ukrainian armed forces over the past two weeks, according to the state-run TASS news agency.
Citing an official statement, TASS reported that among those named are individuals from Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia, Colombia, and Canada. The committee stated that all have been charged in absentia with participating in mercenary activity — a crime under Russian law.
“In the past two weeks, 18 individuals from Ireland, Cyprus, Georgia, Colombia, and Canada have been identified, and charges of mercenary activity have been filed against them in absentia,” the Investigative Committee’s press service announced, adding that an investigation has been launched to locate them. No further details on their alleged activities were provided.
Of the 18, only one name has been publicly released: Urvikis Raimondas, a Lithuanian national. According to Russian authorities, Raimondas arrived in Ukraine in 2023 and joined the International Legion. He is accused of participating in military operations as a mercenary in return for financial compensation.
In previous statements, Russia’s Investigative Committee has said it has opened criminal cases against more than 500 citizens from approximately 40 countries on similar charges.
The Cyprus News Agency (CNA) has contacted the Committee’s press office requesting clarification and further details regarding the latest allegations, particularly concerning Cypriot nationals reportedly involved. A response is awaited.
