A new bill introduced in the United States Congress could impose sanctions on individuals and organisations accused of recruiting African citizens to support Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.
The legislation, introduced on 7 May 2026 by Congressman Joe Wilson and Congressman Jonathan Jackson, seeks to target networks allegedly involved in deceptive recruitment practices across Africa.
Known as the “Countering Russia’s Forced Recruitment and Kidnapping in Africa Act”, the proposal would authorise the US government to apply economic and travel sanctions against foreign individuals, organisations and governments linked to such operations.
Among those specifically named in the bill is Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma.
According to the proposed legislation, Zuma-Sambudla has been referenced in lawsuits alleging that a group of South Africans and two citizens from Botswana were lured to Russia under false promises.
Allegations of deceptive recruitment
The bill claims that several African recruits were promised educational opportunities, security training or employment before travelling to Russia.
However, upon arrival, some allegedly had their passports confiscated, phones taken away and contracts replaced with Russian-language documents that differed from the original agreements.
US lawmakers argue that such tactics amount to exploitative recruitment practices linked to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
The legislation cites reports suggesting that African nationals have been used in combat roles or dangerous labour connected to the conflict.
According to Ukrainian government figures referenced in the bill, more than1,400citizens from36African countries are believed to be fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.
The proposal argues that Russia’s prolonged military campaign has increased demand for additional personnel, creating opportunities for recruiters to target economically vulnerable individuals across Africa.
Lawmakers behind the bill said these operations may constitute human rights violations, including forced recruitment and coercion.
Sanctions could include visa bans and asset freezes
If adopted, the legislation would empower the US President and Secretary of State to identify individuals and organisations linked to recruitment schemes and impose sanctions against them.
Potential penalties include freezing financial assets, restricting access to international loans and cancelling US visas for those listed.
The proposed sanctions framework would remain active for five years after the law comes into effect.
The bill also criticises unnamed African officials accused of knowingly assisting or benefiting from the alleged recruitment activities.
South Africa has previously faced international scrutiny over its perceived relationship with Russia since the start of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Pretoria has maintained that it remains neutral regarding the war, despite repeated criticism from some Western governments.
At this stage, the proposed legislation remains under consideration in the US Congress and has not yet become law.
No criminal findings have been issued by a South African court against Zuma-Sambudla relating to the allegations referenced in the bill.
The development is nevertheless expected to attract significant political attention both in South Africa and internationally due to its connection to the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Western nations.
Source: United States House of Representatives proposed legislation and public congressional statements.
