Johannesburg: President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the return home of South African men who were drawn into the conflict between Russia and Ukraine by South African elements currently under investigation. The South African government, in collaboration with the Russian government, ensured the safe repatriation of the men following distress calls from 17 South African citizens aged between 20 and 39.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa expressed gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for his support in facilitating the men’s return. The initiative followed a telephone conversation between the two leaders on February 10, 2026, during which President Putin pledged his assistance.

Out of the 17 men, four have already returned to South Africa, while 11 are expected to follow soon. Two men remain in Russia; one is hospitalized in Moscow, and the other is finalizing travel arrangements. The South African embassy in Moscow will continue monitoring the hospitalized individual until he is fit to travel.

The investigation into how these young men were recruited for mercenary activities is ongoing.