Photo: lefigaro.
On 29 November, police in North Macedonia detained a man who was trying to join the Russian army to fight in the war against Ukraine. This is the first time in the country’s history that a citizen has been arrested for such an offence. This was reported by the Time Ukraine Israel portal, citing theYevropeiska Pravda publication.
According to official data, the man was identified by the initials Y.K. He was detained late in the evening of 29 November. The investigation revealed that the suspect had been in contact on the Internet with a person who introduced himself as a recruiter for the Russian army. He was offered a cash reward of €3,000 for participating in hostilities on the side of Russia.
Attempt to join the Russian army
In October 2024, Y.K. flew to Moscow with the intention of signing a contract with the Russian armed forces. He said that he planned to undergo training in one of the training camps before being sent to the war against Ukraine. However, upon returning to the capital of North Macedonia, Skopje, the man was detained and interrogated.
During the interrogation, Y.K. confirmed his intention to join the newly formed Russian unit. He is charged under the article on participation in a foreign army, police or paramilitary group. If found guilty, he faces at least three years in prison.
North Macedonia’s position on the war in Ukraine
North Macedonia, which has been a NATO member since 2020, has taken a clear position in support of Ukraine. The country joined international sanctions against Russia and provided military assistance to Ukraine. In February 2024, Skopje signed a joint declaration of support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic integration, demonstrating solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
This case is yet another confirmation of North Macedonia’s resolute stance in countering Russia’s attempts to influence. The investigation into the suspect is ongoing, and this could be an important signal to other potential offenders.
