The 17 young South African men who were reportedly lured into the Russia–Ukraine war front line made a serious mistake in how they went about it. That cannot be ignored. However, one fact remains: they have fought in a real war. They have experienced a live battlefield and modern combat conditions.
It was the responsibility of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the state to ensure that South African citizens were brought back home. That is a constitutional duty, nothing more and nothing less. Now that they are back, the country must decide how to move forward.
Those who recruited and misled them must be held fully accountable under South African law. Exploiting young men and exposing the country to international complications is reckless and unacceptable.
At the same time, the Minister responsible for the South African National Defence Force must now think carefully and act strategically. These 17 brothers have fought a real war. They are returning with lived combat exposure. There should be a structured military and security assessment process, and if they meet the standards, they should be formally integrated into the SANDF.
Experience matters. Modern warfare is not theory, it is reality. If properly vetted, trained further, and disciplined within official command structures, they could strengthen our defence capability. When they are fully prepared and cleared, they could even help lead troops where South Africa has commitments, including in the DRC.
We must also be honest about regional dynamics. South Africa has faced serious security challenges in the region, and tensions involving leaders such as Paul Kagame have raised difficult questions about sovereignty and the safety of our troops. The killing of our soldiers cannot simply be brushed aside. We must regroup, reassess, and strengthen our military readiness. Paul Kagame terrorised us, bullied us, and even killed our people in DRC
Many who claim veteran status in structures aligned to the uMkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans Association and even within the African National Congress have never seen modern frontline combat. Titles alone do not build a capable defence force.
National security is not a slogan. It requires discipline, accountability, strategic thinking, and a serious commitment to strengthening the South African National Defence Force for the challenges ahead.