Investigation Reveals 70 Kyrgyz Nationals Killed in Ukraine War
At least 70 natives of Kyrgyzstan have died during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with 38 being citizens and 10 holding dual citizenship. The report indicates that 18 of the dead were sent to war from Russian prisons, mainly under contracts with the Wagner Group. The investigation was conducted by Azattyk using multiple databases and sources.
An investigation by Azattyk has uncovered that at least 70 individuals from Kyrgyzstan have perished as a result of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. Of these fatalities, 38 were full citizens of Kyrgyzstan, while 10 held dual citizenship with Russia. The victims ranged in age from 19 to 61 years old, indicating a significant loss across different age groups.
The investigation highlights that 18 of the deceased were convicts sent to combat in Ukraine from Russian prisons. Most of these individuals entered the conflict by signing contracts with the Wagner Group, particularly during the initial year of the invasion, while others were recruited under contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defense. Notable locations where they fought include Izium, Bakhmut, and Avdiivka.
Furthermore, the report reveals that over 10 men were previously soldiers in the Russian army before being deployed to Ukraine. Azattyk reporters compiled their findings using data from BBC and Mediazona, as well as publicly available information. It is important to note that the list may not account for all Kyrgyz nationals who have died in the war.
The Azattyk investigation sheds light on the tragic loss of life among Kyrgyz nationals in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With a minimum of 70 deaths identified, including a significant number of individuals with criminal backgrounds, the findings highlight the complex nature of recruitment and combat participation in the war. The report underscores the urgency for comprehensive documentation of all casualties in such international conflicts.
Original Source: 24.kg
