LeadStory

Are Cubans fighting in Ukraine?

Asked 1 hour ago

Answer

Videos and reports indicate that Cuban nationals are fighting for Russia in Ukraine, with estimates of up to 20,000 recruited as mercenaries. Many are reportedly misled about their roles and end up in combat, with dozens killed. The Cuban government denies involvement.

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CBS News

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

CBS News ยท New
CBS News
CBS News
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  • Videos show Cuban nationals captured by Ukraine, allegedly fighting for Russia.
  • Ukrainian officials estimate up to 20,000 Cubans have been recruited as mercenaries. 10s
  • Cubans are reportedly offered one-year contracts with a $2,000 monthly salary, much higher than Cuba's average wage. 28s
  • Some Cubans claim they were misled about their roles and assigned to combat upon arrival. 1m 2s
  • The Cuban government denies involvement and says it is cracking down on recruitment rings. 1m 38s
Military & Conflict

References

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
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CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Videos obtained by CBS News appear to show Cuban nationals captured by Ukraine on the front lines with Russia.

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
Icon
CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Ukrainian officials estimate as many as 20,000 Cubans have been recruited by Russia to fight as mercenaries.

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
Icon
CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

When he arrived in Russia, he found out that he and dozens of other Cubans were being assigned combat roles on the front lines.

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
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CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Officials in Ukraine have compiled a list of 39 Cubans who have been killed, but believe the death toll to be much higher.

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
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CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

A Ukrainian parliament member states the number of Cuban troops could reach at least 25,000, becoming the largest foreign contingent in Russia.

Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine
Icon
CBS News
10 hours ago
Cubans seen apparently fighting for Russia in Ukraine

The Cuban government denied any involvement and said they've cracked down on trafficking rings recruiting Cuban nationals.

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