Conor Kennedy, the son of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., joined Ukraine’s military in 2022, prompting Russia to add him to its international wanted list.
Russian authorities accused Kennedy of serving as a mercenary for Ukraine. A Moscow court ordered his arrest in absentia, and a later appeal failed to overturn the decision.
Conor Kennedy was placed on Russia’s international wanted list over his 2022 Ukraine military service
Kennedy’s legal team challenged the arrest order, but a Russian appeals court upheld it during a closed hearing, according to state news agency TASS.
If convicted under Russian law, the 32-year-old could receive a prison sentence of seven to 10 years. Kennedy is also the great-nephew of former President John F. Kennedy.
Kennedy revealed in October 2022 that he had traveled to Ukraine without initially making his trip public. He joined the country’s International Legion after Russia began its full-scale invasion.
Explaining why he went, Kennedy wrote on Instagram, “Like many people, I was deeply moved by what I saw happening in Ukraine.”
He continued, “I wanted to help.”
Kennedy said he entered the conflict without military experience. He also acknowledged that he was not a skilled marksman but said he learned quickly and eventually went to the northeastern front.
“I was also willing to die there,” Kennedy wrote.
His time with the Ukrainian forces was brief. Kennedy later described the people he served with as “the bravest I have ever known.”
He also wrote, “This war will shape the fate of democracy in this century,” while encouraging people to support Ukraine.
Ukraine established the International Legion following Russia’s 2022 invasion. The force provided a way for foreign volunteers to serve with Ukraine’s military.
Russian authorities have challenged the status of foreign volunteers who fought for Ukraine. Moscow has accused some of them of acting as mercenaries, which forms the basis of the allegation against Kennedy.
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