Jakarta. Indonesia is currently looking into Ukraine’s claims that its people have joined the Russian army, including the possibility of them falling for fake job offers.

The Ukrainian intelligence service agency FISU recently reported that at least 8 Indonesians got recruited to fight in the ongoing war, citing promises of high pay, noncombat positions, and fast-tracked Russian citizenship. FISU released pictures of what appeared to be the mercenaries’ e-visa applications. They were all men in their 30s and 40s.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Yvonne Mewengkang said Monday that the Indonesian government was still verifying the reports by cross-checking with its diplomatic missions and other ministries.

“Further confirmation is required regarding the individuals’ identities, citizenships, recruitment process, and the nature of their involvement,” Yvonne said.

Participation in foreign combat forces, especially those without presidential approval, gives grounds for Indonesia to cancel citizenships. Any revocation remains subject to official verification. 

“We will also see whether there is a possibility for fraud, exploitation, or deceptive job postings,” Yvonne remarked, saying that the government will take measures to protect the men if that’s the case. 

If it turns out that they are really in the army, Yvonne said that these “acts by individuals would not represent Indonesia’s [foreign] policy and stance”.

She also repeated Jakarta’s calls for a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Last year, ex-marine Satria Arta Kumbara made headlines for fighting for Russia, but later requested to regain Indonesian nationality.

Jakarta has strictly maintained a neutral stance in the Russo-Ukrainian war, as the full-scale fighting is now in its fourth year.

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