Panama negotiates with Russia the return of citizens linked to the conflict in Ukraine
The Foreign Minister of Panama, Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, held a strategic meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, in the framework of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The main objective of the meeting was to address the situation of Panamanian citizens who are involved in the war in Ukraine and who have expressed their firm desire to return to national territory.
Following the formal request submitted by the Panamanian delegation, the Russian minister indicated that Moscow will examine the return requests on a case-by-case basis. This diplomatic opening represents a significant step forward, allowing Panama to continue with the necessary efforts to safeguard its nationals, a commitment that Martínez-Acha has repeatedly emphasized before the UN Security Council.
For Panama, every citizen counts. No Panamanian should be left forgotten in a war that is not their own.
Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Panama
Investigations into illicit recruitment
In parallel with diplomatic efforts, Panamanian judicial authorities have intensified investigations into alleged human trafficking and military recruitment networks. According to data from the Public Ministry, around 30 Panamanian citizens linked to the conflict have been identified: 21 in Russian territory and nine in Ukraine.
- Operation Sovereign Rescue: Recently, three individuals were apprehended in the 24 de Diciembre district on suspicion of recruiting individuals for military purposes.
- Modus operandi: Investigations indicate that the recruiters offered monthly salaries of between 3,000 and 3,500 dollars, in addition to bonuses reaching 70,000 dollars.
- Evidence: During raids on a hostel and a restaurant, authorities seized documents and technological equipment that are currently being analyzed to clarify the network of operations.
Maritime security and diplomacy
In addition to the humanitarian situation, the Panamanian delegation explained to Russia the complications faced by merchant marine vessels under its registry in the Black Sea area. Because Panama has one of the largest vessel registries in the world, the Foreign Minister highlighted the importance of guaranteeing freedom of navigation.
In response to this claim, the Russian representation expressed its willingness to cooperate and address the logistical difficulties of these vessels. Both Panama and Russia have committed to keeping diplomatic channels open to follow up on the consular, bilateral, and maritime issues discussed in New York, always prioritizing the protection of citizens and the country’s sovereign interests.
