Macedonian citizens investigated over alleged involvement in Ukraine war with Russian forces

January 6, 2025 – The public prosecutor in North Macedonia is investigating two citizens suspected of fighting for Russian paramilitary groups in Ukraine. One of the individuals is reportedly linked to the Wagner private military company, a group infamous for its role in global conflicts.

Participation in foreign wars is a criminal offense in North Macedonia, with penalties of up to four years in prison. The Public Prosecutor's Office has confirmed that charges are being pursued against the two Macedonians, but details on the total number of citizens involved remain unclear.

The latest case, reported on December 23, concerns two Macedonian nationals who are accused of joining Russian forces in Ukraine. One suspect, 37-year-old Lj.B. from Skopje, and the deceased individual T.Sh., are said to have signed contracts with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, a region controlled by Russian-backed separatists.

Police discovered items at Lj.B.'s home, including tactical gear, which authorities say support the allegations of his involvement in the conflict. Both men have been placed under house arrest.

Another case, reported in late November, involved a 28-year-old man, J.K., who had traveled to Russia with the intention of joining the Russian military for a reward of €3,000. After returning to North Macedonia, he was arrested, and authorities confirmed he had been recruited through online channels and planned to undergo combat training in Ukraine.

While the authorities have not confirmed whether these are isolated incidents or part of a larger recruitment effort, the cases have raised concerns about a potential underground network facilitating Balkan nationals' involvement in the war.

Pavle Trajanov, the National Coordinator for the Prevention of Violent Extremism and Counterterrorism, declined to comment on the number of Macedonians fighting in Ukraine, citing a lack of direct information from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

North Macedonia's investigations into foreign fighters reflect a broader trend in the Balkans. Countries like Serbia and Montenegro have also reported cases of nationals joining Russian paramilitary groups, with some recruits admitting to fighting for units such as the Wagner Group.

Wagner, founded by Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, has been linked to numerous war crimes and is under EU sanctions for its activities in Ukraine, Syria, and Africa. The group's role in the Ukraine war has raised significant international concern.