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Kyrgyz Mercenary Sentenced to 10 Years for Fighting with Russia in Ukraine

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Hemin Bakir
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Kyrgyz Mercenary Sentenced to 10 Years for Fighting with Russia in Ukraine.
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Image Credit: Reuters

In a significant ruling, a Kyrgyz court handed down a 10-year prison sentence to a man who fought on behalf of Russia in the conflict in Ukraine.

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The court in the capital city of Bishkek announced its decision, finding the 32-year-old man guilty of mercenaries.

This verdict comes at a time when Moscow is actively seeking to recruit individuals from ex-Soviet Central Asian countries, raising concerns about the involvement of foreign fighters in conflicts.

Evidence of Involvement in Ukraine

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The court's ruling was based on compelling evidence establishing the man's participation in the hostilities in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region.

Despite his denial, the court found that he had been present in the conflict zone between June and November of the previous year. It was revealed that he received a monthly payment of 180,000 rubles ($2,250) along with the promise of a Russian passport.

Crackdown on Mercenary Activities

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This court decision reflects the Kyrgyz government's commitment to combating mercenary activities and upholding the rule of law.

The country's stance against individuals involved in foreign conflicts aligns with international efforts to discourage the recruitment and deployment of mercenaries in armed conflicts.

By holding accountable those who engage in such activities, Kyrgyzstan sends a strong message that it will not tolerate its citizens participating in foreign conflicts.

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Concerns over Central Asian Nationals

The involvement of Central Asian nationals in the conflict in Ukraine has raised concerns and sparked public discourse.

Reports suggest that dozens of individuals from Central Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan, have lost their lives while serving in the ranks of the Russian army or private military groups like Wagner.

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