In a recent development, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa engaged in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address the repatriation of South Africans who were deceived into fighting for Russian forces in Ukraine. According to Daily Times, the South African presidency confirmed that these discussions aim to facilitate the return of nationals who were 'lured into fighting' in the conflict. The issue gained urgency after the South African government received 'distress calls' from 17 men trapped in the Donbas region, as reported by Dawn. This move highlights a broader recruitment crisis affecting African nations, with over 1,400 citizens from 36 African countries reportedly identified among Russian ranks, as noted by Ukraine's foreign minister in November.