The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commenced the repatriation of citizens who were misled into traveling to Russia and subsequently sent to fight in Ukraine. Over the past two weeks, 18 Peruvians have returned home, with additional repatriations scheduled in early May.
According to diplomatic sources, one more citizen is expected to arrive on May 3, followed by six others on May 4. Two additional individuals who sought assistance from the Peruvian embassy in Moscow are currently awaiting repatriation under diplomatic protection.
In early May, the Peruvian prosecutor’s office launched a preliminary investigation into potential human trafficking, prompted by numerous reports from families regarding the disappearance of their relatives in Russia. Legal representatives indicate that Peruvians were lured to Russia with promises of employment in various fields, including positions within the armed forces.
Job offers included roles such as security personnel, engineers, chefs, and taxi drivers, all purportedly unrelated to combat duties. However, upon arrival, many were coerced into signing documents in Russian, had their identification papers confiscated, and were sent for brief military training before being deployed to the front lines.
Advocates for the families of the missing individuals claim that since October 2025, approximately 600 Peruvians have traveled to Russia under these false pretenses. Reports indicate that at least 13 Peruvian citizens have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The Peruvian government is actively repatriating citizens who were deceived into participating in the conflict in Ukraine. With ongoing investigations into potential human trafficking, the situation highlights the risks faced by individuals misled by false job offers.