Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

The conflict in Ukraine has claimed the lives of two South African nationals who were recruited to fight alongside Russian forces, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, confirmed on Thursday. This tragic development comes as the South African government continues to secure the return of citizens who were lured into the conflict, with 11 already back home and more expected soon.

The revelation of the deaths underscores the complex and dangerous situation faced by individuals who answered calls to join the fighting, often enticed by promises of financial compensation. The South African government has repeatedly warned against its citizens participating in the war, and is now grappling with the legal ramifications for those returning home after having fought in a foreign conflict. The ongoing efforts to repatriate these individuals highlight a broader diplomatic initiative, involving direct engagement with Russian authorities.

South Africans ‘Lured’ into Conflict

According to reports, approximately 17 South Africans were initially believed to have been recruited to fight in Ukraine. The government maintains that these individuals were misled into believing they would be providing security services rather than engaging in active combat. President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his intervention in securing the release of the returning nationals, as reported by the Al Jazeera.

Minister of Defence, Thandi Modise, confirmed the deaths of the two South Africans during a parliamentary briefing. Although details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths remain limited, the government is working to provide support to their families. The minister also indicated that legal consequences await those who return home, as their participation in the conflict potentially violates South Africa’s foreign policy and legislation prohibiting mercenary activities. The Fox News reported that President Ramaphosa also thanked Putin for his assistance.

Legal Ramifications for Returning Fighters

Upon their return to South Africa, the men face potential prosecution under the Foreign Military Assistance Act, which prohibits citizens from participating in armed conflicts abroad without government authorization. The Act carries significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. The government is currently assessing the individual circumstances of each returning fighter to determine the appropriate course of legal action. The Business Insider Africa detailed Putin’s intervention in securing their release.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is providing consular assistance to the returning nationals and their families. DIRCO has also reiterated its call for South African citizens to refrain from participating in the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the dangers and legal consequences involved. The BBC reported that Ramaphosa thanked Putin for the release of the South Africans.

Ongoing Repatriation Efforts

While 11 South Africans have already returned, efforts are underway to bring back the remaining individuals. The government is working closely with Russian authorities to facilitate the repatriation process, ensuring the safe passage of its citizens. The exact number of South Africans still in Ukraine remains unclear, but officials estimate it to be fewer than the initial 17. The Al Jazeera also reported on the return of the 11 men.

The situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with foreign conflicts and the importance of adhering to national laws and international regulations. The South African government is committed to providing support to its citizens affected by the war in Ukraine, while also upholding its legal obligations and promoting peace and stability.

As the repatriation process continues, the focus will shift to addressing the legal and social reintegration challenges faced by the returning fighters. The government will necessitate to balance the need for accountability with the provision of support services to help these individuals rebuild their lives. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the long-term impact of this situation on South Africa and its foreign policy.

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Šurany, Slovakia – The mayor of Šurany, Marcel Filaga, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Miroslav Suja, a politician with the Republic movement, alleging a sustained campaign of disinformation and personal attacks. The legal action, filed at the Zvolen District Court on February 26, 2026, seeks both financial compensation and a public apology from Suja, according to reports from Aktuality.sk.

The lawsuit centers on claims made by Suja through videos disseminated on social media, which Filaga asserts contain false statements damaging to his reputation and have incited aggression among residents of Šurany. Filaga contends that Suja’s accusations, including allegations of improper influence in public tenders and pressure on city council members, are baseless and intended to discredit his leadership. The mayor is seeking €100,000 in damages and a formal retraction of the statements, as reported by SME.

Details of the Allegations

Filaga specifically refutes Suja’s claims regarding manipulation of competitive bidding processes to favor certain companies. He emphasizes that all public tenders are conducted electronically, transparently and under the oversight of independent firms. He also denies any attempts to coerce city councilors, stating that each member votes freely according to their conscience. Filaga dismissed Suja’s assertions linking him to specific business entities in connection with the Šurany Industrial Park as “pure demagoguery.”

The mayor’s statement, as reported by Hlavné správy, highlights the severity of the alleged defamation, stating that Suja’s actions have not only harmed his personal reputation but also invaded his privacy. Filaga claims the campaign has created a climate of fear and hostility within the community.

Background on Miroslav Suja

Miroslav Suja, born April 7, 1976, in Detva, is a Slovak politician and businessman. He served as a member of the National Council of the Slovak Republic from 2020 to 2023, initially as a member of the ĽSNS (People’s Party – Our Slovakia) and later joining the Republic movement in 2021, according to Wikipedia. Prior to his political career, Suja held various positions, including serving as a council member in the Banská Bystrica Region and holding managerial roles in private companies.

Growing Legal Pressure for Suja

This lawsuit represents escalating legal challenges for Suja. Reports indicate he is also facing a collective legal action related to the same alleged disinformation campaign. The full scope of the collective action and the number of plaintiffs involved remain unclear at this time.

The case is expected to draw significant attention, given the political climate in Slovakia and the increasing scrutiny of online disinformation. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving public figures and allegations of defamation on social media.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will be on the evidence presented by both sides and the court’s interpretation of the extent to which Suja’s statements constitute defamation and have caused demonstrable harm to Filaga’s reputation. The next confirmed checkpoint will be the scheduling of the first hearing at the Zvolen District Court.

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