Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha formally asked Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday to facilitate the safe return of Panamanian nationals who have been drawn into the Ukraine Russia war. The request came during a high-level United Nations Security Council briefing on maintaining peace and security in Ukraine, where he emphasized the urgency of protecting citizens abroad.
Speaking in New York, Martínez-Acha framed the appeal as a strictly humanitarian and consular matter, urging immediate cooperation. He asked both nations to work within their own legal frameworks to allow any Panamanian who wishes to leave the conflict zone to return home safely. The minister said the request respects the sovereignty of both countries and the authority of their respective governments, while prioritizing the safety of civilian nationals above all political divisions.
Humanitarian Appeal Before the Security Council
The foreign minister delivered a direct message during the session, emphasizing Panama’s unwavering commitment to its people abroad. “For Panama, every citizen counts. No Panamanian should be forgotten in a war that is not theirs,” he stated firmly before the international delegates.
Panamanian diplomatic sources estimate that between 30 and 60 citizens have been linked to military forces on both sides of the conflict. At least 17 Panamanians have already returned safely to the country, according to official reports, bringing a measure of relief to their families. The foreign ministry continues to track those who may still be in active service or otherwise entangled in the fierce fighting, maintaining open channels for their eventual extraction.
Martínez-Acha expressed gratitude to Ukraine for its cooperation in previous repatriation efforts and timely consular assistance. “We deeply value that humanitarian gesture,” he said, adding that Panama hopes to extend similar thanks to Russia soon for enabling the safe return of any remaining citizens who want to come home.
Trafficking Networks Target Panamanian Recruits
Journalistic investigations and police reports have uncovered human trafficking rings operating through social media platforms and WhatsApp. These networks lure young Panamanians with fake job offers and signing bonuses reaching $17,000, only to funnel them toward high-tension military zones in Eastern Europe.
The foreign minister voiced concern about the broader pattern of foreign recruitment, noting that citizens from several Latin American countries have been pulled into the conflict. He urged stronger international efforts to prevent the war from expanding further beyond its borders.
Panama’s Position on Peace and International Law
Beyond the repatriation request, Martínez-Acha reiterated Panama’s longstanding call for an immediate and verifiable ceasefire. He emphasized the need to respect international humanitarian law and to open serious, credible negotiations in good faith toward a political solution.
The minister made clear that protecting Panamanian citizens remains a core priority of the country’s foreign policy. “Peace is also the possibility for future generations to live without fear,” he said during his address.
The Security Council session brought together representatives from multiple nations to discuss the ongoing war’s impact on global security. Panama’s intervention highlighted the often-overlooked human dimension of the conflict, particularly for smaller nations whose citizens become entangled through deception or economic desperation.