Zimbabwean ex-soldiers who fought in DRC war now on Russia’s frontlines

By Maitengwe Reporter
BULAWAYO — The number of Zimbabweans fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine could be higher than previously reported, with information reaching this publication suggesting that some of those on the frontlines are former soldiers who served in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) war in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Sources indicate that some Zimbabweans involved in the conflict have previous military experience, including participation in Zimbabwe’s military intervention in the DRC.
Speaking to this publication, a Zimbabwean soldier deployed on the frontline said they feared for their lives daily as they faced intense battlefield dangers, including drone attacks.
“ kuyabheda bafoe, anything can happen’
The soldier described the risks faced by troops operating on the frontline, where drone warfare has become a major threat to military personnel and movements.
Video footage obtained by this publication appears to show Russian soldiers, alongside Zimbabwean fighters, crossing a river in an area which reportedly associated with heavy casualties from drone attacks.