UK Sanctions Brokers Linked to Forced Recruitment of Kenyan Nationals Into Russia
The United Kingdom has introduced new sanctions targeting 35 individuals and organisations linked to Russia’s drone production and alleged human trafficking operations involving foreign workers, including Kenyan nationals.
The measures focus on networks accused of supporting Russia’s war effort in Ukraine through illicit supply chains and forced labour. UK officials said some groups have recruited migrants with promises of well-paid jobs, only to coerce them into working in weapons factories or sending them to the battlefield.
Kenyan nationals were reportedly forced to sign military contracts and deployed without training, while others were directed into drone assembly facilities. The announcement follows a significant increase in Russia’s use of drones in Ukraine.
British authorities reported that in March 2026, Russia launched more than 200 drones per day, the highest monthly level since the conflict began. Analysts say this rise reflects the scale of Russia’s industrial activity and the need to disrupt its supply networks.
Those sanctioned include Pavel Nikitin, who is linked to the production of the VT-40 drone, a low-cost attack system used in strikes across Ukraine. Mikhail Lyapin has also been listed for his alleged role in trafficking Kenyan nationals into Russia under false promises.
The UK has extended restrictions to companies in countries such as China and Thailand, accused of supplying drone components and military equipment. Stephen Doughty, the UK’s minister for sanctions, described the exploitation of migrants as “barbaric”.
He said the measures are intended to expose and disrupt networks that traffic migrants and supply components to Russia’s drone industry.
