Panama manages to repatriate 17 citizens linked to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama confirmed the safe return of 17 Panamanian citizens who were in areas affected by the war between Russia and Ukraine. This figure is the result of intense diplomatic and consular efforts that have allowed for the identification and assistance of nationals who had joined military forces on both sides.
Of those rescued, 11 returned from Russian territory and six from Ukraine. The Panamanian Foreign Ministry keeps its communication channels active to monitor the situation of other fellow citizens who still remain in the region, seeking to facilitate their return whenever legal and security conditions allow it.
Tragic outcomes and allegations of deception
Unfortunately, the conflict has claimed the lives of at least two Panamanians from Colón: Michael Alexander Navas, 31, who died on the Ukrainian front while attempting to evacuate the wounded, and Abimael Becerra Ortiz, 19, who was in the Russian ranks.
Testimonies from repatriated individuals reveal a scheme of deception where, after being lured by salaries of up to 9,000 dollars per month and the promise of not entering combat, citizens were stripped of their passports, phones, and forced to sign contracts in foreign languages under military pressure.
Legal actions against recruitment networks
Panamanian authorities have dismantled a structure dedicated to illegal recruitment that operated through social networks such as TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Currently, three people are in pretrial detention for their alleged involvement in human trafficking crimes for the purpose of labor exploitation.
- Mario Alberto Irwonds Brooks: 70-year-old taxi driver accused of his alleged participation in transfers.
- Efraín Alexis Ryfkogel Almengor: Veteran of the conflict, also under investigation.
- Third defendant: A 23-year-old man arrested at Tocumen Airport following an Interpol alert.
Constant diplomatic efforts
Chancellor Javier Martínez-Acha has led high-level meetings with representatives from Russia and Ukraine, appealing to humanitarian criteria for the disengagement of Panamanians. Meanwhile, the Panamanian embassies in Russia and Poland are working permanently to provide consular assistance and maintain contact with the families of those affected.
The Government of Panama reiterates its urgent call to the population to avoid traveling to conflict zones to join military forces, stressing that these actions not only put lives at risk, but also seriously complicate the State’s ability to provide protection and consular assistance.
