Two Colombian nationals, Alexander Ante and Jose Aranda, were reportedly kidnapped in Venezuela by Russian authorities while returning from fighting for Ukraine. Their families have not heard from them since their capture over a month ago, which has led to increasing concern for their welfare. Both men could face substantial prison time for charges of mercenary involvement, according to diplomatic sources.
Reports indicate that two Colombian men, Alexander Ante (46) and Jose Aranda (37), who fought for Ukraine, were allegedly kidnapped by Vladimir Putin’s regime in Venezuela and subsequently imprisoned in Russia. These men were taken while en route home from the Ukrainian front line, as they passed through Caracas, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Alexander Ante joined the controversial 49th Infantry Battalion Karpatska Sic, known for its neo-Nazi connections, in 2023. With prior experience in the Colombian army, he made his way back to Colombia by June 2024 but disappeared soon after communicating a message to his mother, requesting her to save some Colombian stew for him.
After an extensive search by his family lasting 43 days, Mr. Ante appeared in a video alongside Mr. Aranda on a Russian state media channel. In the footage, they were shown in handcuffs, confirming their identities and mentioning their battalion. Foreign fighters serving in Karpatska Sic reportedly earn between $2,400 to $3,200 monthly.
Mr. Aranda, who also fought for the battalion, had recently sent a video from Madrid boarding a flight with Mr. Ante just before their disappearance. His planned birthday celebration in Popayán was disrupted as he failed to arrive, leaving his wife concerned due to the lack of communication.
The families of both men have been unable to reach them or communicate with the appointed Russian legal representative. Otilia, Mr. Ante’s mother, expressed her despair, saying, “I do not know if he is cold, if he is hungry, or how they are treating him. I know nothing. It is so hard.”
Both men, in the custody of Russian intelligence, face serious charges and are reportedly being held in remand for six months with potential sentences ranging from 12 to 18 years for the accusation of being mercenaries, as stated by the Colombian ambassador to Russia, Héctor Arenas Neira.
In summary, Alexander Ante and Jose Aranda, two Colombians who fought in Ukraine, have reportedly been kidnapped by Russian authorities in Venezuela. Their families are in distress due to the lack of communication and the uncertain circumstances surrounding their detention. The charges against them are serious, potentially leading to lengthy prison sentences. The situation remains tense, with neither the Venezuelan nor the Russian governments providing clarity regarding their custody.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
