The Ukrainian government has made it clear that it has no plans to release or repatriate the Cuban citizens captured on the battlefield while fighting as mercenaries for Russia. This was confirmed by a Ukrainian official to journalist Mario J. Pentón, who noted that the only way these prisoners might gain freedom is through a swap with Moscow.
This revelation comes amid growing concerns about the fate of young Cubans recruited by the Russian military under false pretenses of employment. Among them is Ernesto Míchel Pérez Alvelaes from Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus, who was captured by Ukrainian forces after surrendering voluntarily. "Many did not survive. I was told I would work in construction, but it was a lie," recounted the young man, who reported the deaths of at least 10 of his fellow countrymen on the front lines.
Ukrainian Position on Cuban Prisoners
Despite pleas for mercy from families in Cuba, Kiev remains resolute. "They will not be released or sent back to Cuba," the official consulted by Pentón stated, as reported on Tuesday.
This situation involving Cuban mercenaries was recently discussed in a national security meeting at the Capitol in Washington D.C., where Cuban-American congress members condemned the Havana regime's complicity in the recruitment process. The Ukrainian delegation present highlighted that thousands of island residents have been used as cannon fodder by Russia, with logistical support from the Cuban government.
International Repercussions and Calls for Sanctions
Exile organizations, like the Cuban Resistance Assembly, have called for international sanctions against Havana and have urged for it to be designated as a terrorist state. "We denounce the exploitation of the Cuban people by the Castro communist dictatorship, sending young men to die in a conflict that does not reflect the interests of the Cuban nation," declared Orlando Gutiérrez Boronat, spokesperson for the ARC.
This issue has escalated since 2023, when hundreds of Cubans were lured with promises of high salaries and Russian citizenship, only to find themselves in military units such as the 106th Airborne Division and squads of the Wagner Group. Despite Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío's denial of any official involvement, investigative media in Ukraine have documented the widespread presence of Cubans in the Russian ranks.
Uncertainty for Families in Cuba
Meanwhile, back in Cuba, families continue to wait for official answers. Many remain unaware if their loved ones are alive or dead, imprisoned in Ukraine, or lost in the Kremlin's war machinery.
Key Questions on Cuban Mercenaries in Ukraine
What is Ukraine's stance on the captured Cuban mercenaries?
Ukraine has stated it will not release or repatriate the Cuban mercenaries unless there is a prisoner exchange with Moscow.
How were young Cubans recruited to fight for Russia?
Young Cubans were recruited under false promises of employment, high salaries, and Russian citizenship, but ended up being sent to military units involved in the conflict.
What has been the international response to this issue?
International exile organizations have demanded sanctions against Cuba and urged for it to be labeled as a terrorist state due to its involvement in recruiting mercenaries for Russia.