Bolivia confirms one citizen dead fighting for Russia, seeks 19 others

Bolivia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed the death of a Bolivian national fighting with Russian armed forces and is actively trying to locate 19 other citizens. The ministry presented its first official update on the cases, stating that 26 Bolivians are currently under consular monitoring in connection with the Russian military.

Of these, 20 individuals hold active military contracts. Four others are reported injured and receiving treatment in field hospitals, with one undergoing a military disengagement process. The ministry also confirmed one deceased individual and another who has already been repatriated.

Foreign Minister Fernando Aramayo acknowledged that investigations are examining the role of networks or intermediaries who may have offered work contracts with misrepresented terms to Bolivians. He noted that the current administration resumed tracking these cases in November 2025, accusing the previous government of inaction.

A consular mission was dispatched to Donetsk between June 6 and 9, 2026, to verify the situation of one Bolivian national, ensure their medical care, and facilitate their return. Aramayo also reported a meeting on July 17 with the Russian Ambassador to Bolivia, Dmitry Vérchenko, establishing a direct communication channel for these cases.

The ministry's announcement coincided with pleas from families of the recruited individuals who gathered at the Santa Cruz Departmental Legislative Assembly. They expressed desperation for assistance in locating and repatriating their loved ones, with one wife tearfully recounting receiving news of her husband's death and demanding the return of his remains.