Story perspectives

Cubans Allegedly Recruited to Fight for Russia in Ukraine

10/14/2025

49 6

Summary

Story summary

Two Cuban nationals Alex Vega and Andorf Velasquez say they were recruited to fight with Russian forces in Ukraine and sent to the front.
Ukrainian intelligence estimates thousands of Cubans have been recruited, often under false pretenses, with some alleging government complicity.
The Cuban government denies the claims, stating it does not deploy military personnel abroad.
The recruitment network involves agencies and foreign organizations, with accusations of exploitation and deception.

1 of 1

Story summary

Two Cuban nationals Alex Vega and Andorf Velasquez say they were recruited to fight with Russian forces in Ukraine and sent to the front.
Ukrainian intelligence estimates thousands of Cubans have been recruited, often under false pretenses, with some alleging government complicity.
The Cuban government denies the claims, stating it does not deploy military personnel abroad.
The recruitment network involves agencies and foreign organizations, with accusations of exploitation and deception.