CDDH says at least 50 Dominicans allegedly traveled to Russia to fight in war

The Dominican Committee for Human Rights (CDDH) says at least 50 Dominicans traveled to Russia between June and August 2026 knowing they would allegedly be recruited as combatants, while another 150 reportedly traveled after being offered what they believed were legitimate jobs.

Carlos Manuel Sánchez Díaz, coordinator for the CDDH’s Southern Region, told Infobae that the 50 individuals allegedly signed contracts to fight in the war, with economic hardship, limited opportunities and promises of substantial financial compensation cited as possible reasons for their recruitment.

According to Sánchez Díaz, recruiters allegedly offered initial payments ranging from US$8,000 to US$16,000, as well as potential compensation of up to US$400,000 or US$500,000 for families in the event of a recruit’s death in combat.

The CDDH says it has documented cases in which families approved young relatives’ trips after being attracted by these financial offers.

Family loses contact with 22-year-old Dominican in Russia

Among the cases cited by the organization is that of a 22-year-old Dominican blacksmith and welder who allegedly traveled to Russia after contacting recruiters through social media.

His sister said the young man completed his travel arrangements without telling the family and later contacted relatives through WhatsApp, telling them he was in Russia working as a soldier. She said he had traveled with several other young men, including some from nearby communities.

The family subsequently lost contact with him. When relatives called the number he had used, a Russian-speaking person who identified himself as a military superior reportedly said there was no signal where the young man was located.

CDDH points to alleged recruitment hotspots

The human rights organization identified Haina, El Carril, the National District, Santo Domingo province, Higüey, San Pedro de Macorís and San Juan de la Maguana as areas where recruitment may be taking place.

Sánchez Díaz also alleged that part of the operation is coordinated from Colombia, using digital communications and contracts presented as construction work or cultural exchanges to conceal the alleged military purpose of the trips.

The CDDH says relatives and human rights defenders filed complaints with the Attorney General’s Office on August 24, 2026, providing contracts, telephone numbers and other evidence. The organization said it also notified Dominican authorities but has yet to receive a response.

The group further claims that some Dominican fighters have faced communication restrictions and reprisals after cases became public. It said it is aware of at least one Dominican allegedly killed in a drone strike, although the death has not been independently confirmed by Dominican or Russian authorities.

The CDDH is urging Dominican authorities to activate diplomatic mechanisms to locate and protect Dominicans in Russia and facilitate their return when possible.