Panama Reports 19 Citizens Fighting for Russia, 5 for Ukraine; Several Missing

Panama's Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring the situation of its citizens involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs and Cooperation, Carlos Guevara Mann, confirmed that authorities are aware of 19 Panamanians fighting with Russian armed forces and five with Ukrainian forces. The status of these individuals varies, with some actively engaged in combat, others reported missing, and at least one confirmed deceased on Russian territory.

Family members of those involved have approached the ministry seeking information and communication channels. In response, Panamanian authorities have intensified diplomatic efforts, holding meetings with the Russian ambassador to follow up on specific cases and with Ukraine's chargé d'affaires to assess the condition of Panamanians on that front. Guevara Mann expressed the government's concern for the citizens' safety, while emphasizing that their decision to join these battlefronts was strictly voluntary.

The ministry also highlighted the existence of networks actively recruiting individuals to fight abroad. Guevara Mann issued a strong warning to citizens, urging them not to fall for such offers or engage in international armed disputes. He stated that Panama is not at war with any country and has no involvement in any conflict, thus providing no reason for citizens to participate in foreign combat. The vice minister cautioned that involvement in such activities often leads to tragic consequences.

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Panama is not at war with any country and does not participate in any armed conflict, so there is no reason for citizens to get involved in foreign combat.