Local authorities in Cuba have apprehended a total of seventeen individuals on suspicion of their involvement in a human trafficking network aimed at enticing young men to enlist in the Russian military for service in Ukraine. This development has been officially reported by Cuban government sources. Earlier this week, the Havana government disclosed the discovery of such a network, asserting that its operatives were active within both Cuba and Russia.
César Rodríguez, a spokesperson for the Cuban Interior Ministry, conveyed, “As a result of our investigation, we have thus far apprehended 17 individuals, including key organizers operating within this network.” Rodríguez further revealed that the mastermind behind this group relied on two individuals residing in Cuba to recruit Cuban nationals for combat on the side of Russia in Ukraine.
In regard to legal consequences, one prosecutor has emphasized that individuals suspected of association with this group could potentially face severe penalties, ranging from 30 years of imprisonment to life imprisonment or even the death penalty, contingent upon the gravity of their offenses. These potential charges encompass human trafficking, engaging in mercenary activities, or participating in hostile actions against a foreign state.
It is worth noting that Russia, which has historically maintained close ties with communist Cuba, remains a significant destination for Cuban migrants due to the enduring economic crisis in their homeland. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree last year, facilitating the acquisition of citizenship through an expedited process for foreigners enlisting in the Russian military.
In the midst of Russia’s military incursion into Ukraine, the government in Havana has declared its neutrality, refusing to permit its citizens to partake in the conflict as mercenaries. However, this week, Havana characterized Russia’s February-initiated war in Ukraine as a “military operation,” employing a phrase consistent with Moscow’s terminology.
Source: ceskenoviny.cz
