Ex-soldiers joining Russian military as mercenaries, Sri Lanka seeks details

• Defence Ministry says some would have joined through unlawful means 
• Educates soldiers about dangers involved 

Amidst reports that some ex-military men from Sri Lanka have joined the Russian military operations against Ukraine, Sri Lankan Ambassador in Moscow Prof. Janita Liyanage said she asked for details about them from the Russian military if any. She said this in response to a query about media reports to that effect. “I sought such details from the Russian military if there is anyone there,” she said. 

Asked for a comment, Media Director of the Defence Ministry Colonel Nalin Herath said some ex-soldiers may have joined the Russian military, possibly through unlawful means. He said the Ministry had taken steps to educate soldiers about the dangers involved in such unlawful acts.
“They may have been lured due to lucrative offers. There is no guarantee for compensation in case they die while fighting,” he said.