Panama Reports 17 Citizens Returned from Russia-Ukraine Conflict Zone

Panama's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the safe return of 17 citizens who were involved in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The group included 11 individuals who returned from Russia and six from Ukraine.

The ministry has been actively engaged in diplomatic and consular efforts to locate Panamanian citizens connected to the conflict, aiming to secure their safe disengagement and return. These actions have involved high-level discussions with authorities in both the Russian Federation and Ukraine. Four meetings were held with representatives from the Russian Embassy in Panama and two with Ukrainian Embassy representatives, specifically requesting facilitation for the citizens' release and orderly return.

Foreign Minister Javier Eduardo Martínez-Acha Vásquez sent diplomatic communications to both Russia and Ukraine, appealing to humanitarian considerations and the respectful relations Panama maintains with both nations. Panama's embassies in Russia and Poland (which covers Ukraine) are continuing diplomatic efforts to ascertain the status of its nationals and provide consular assistance.

Furthermore, the Public Ministry has launched investigations to determine if any criminal conduct facilitated Panamanians' involvement with military forces in the conflict. The Panamanian government reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens and urged Panamanians to refrain from participating in or joining military forces related to the conflict due to the grave personal risks involved.

“

So unless, as a country, we decide to reduce the jurisdictions which have been allocated to the Supreme Court, for now, there should be no cap.