Colombians Detained in Russia: The Story of José Medina and Alexander Ante
Lapatilla
September 20, 2024, 8:46 am
“We are also locked in,” says Cielo Paz, anxiously awaiting her husband, José Medina. A retired soldier who fought in Ukraine, Medina planned to return to Colombia in July, but his arrival is overshadowed by concerns about his detainment in Russia.
The Disappearance
José Medina (36) and Alexander Ante (47), both former Colombian military personnel, vanished six weeks after their arrival in Venezuela on July 18. They were subsequently accused of being “mercenaries” in a Russian court, facing up to 15 years in prison.
A Journey Interrupted
The two men aimed to reach their homes in Popayán, a region plagued by violence. They arrived in Caracas from Madrid, with plans to fly to Bogotá the following day. However, their families lost contact as their journey took an unexpected turn.
The last communication with Medina came when he messaged his mother, saying, “Mommy, I’m on my way. He’s saving me some sancocho.” Since then, the silence has been deafening for their families.
Background and Motivations
Medina and Ante’s decision to fight in Ukraine stems from economic struggles. In Ukraine, they earned $3,000 monthly, significantly higher than the Colombian military salary. This opportunity attracted many from Colombia, a nation known for its military history and long-standing internal conflicts.
Life in Ukraine
- Medina served in the Colombian army for 14 years.
- Ante was employed in private security until health issues prevented contract renewal.
- Both were motivated by financial needs and dreams of better living conditions.
Impact on Families
The arrest of Medina and Ante has devastated their families. Luz Amparo Aranda mourns for her son, and Cielo Paz faces uncertainty about her husband’s fate, echoing the pain of many families affected by international conflict.
Voices from Home
Otilia Ante describes her fears: “No… I just want to see him, to be allowed to talk to him,” highlighting the deep emotional toll their detainment has taken.
Legal and Diplomatic Context
On August 28, Russian authorities announced their arrest, placing them in Lefortovo detention center, awaiting trial. The situation has drawn attention to the actions and responsibilities of the Colombian government.
Government Response
While families advocate desperately for their release, the Colombian Foreign Ministry has only issued a vague statement, seeking information on their legal status. Critics argue that more decisive actions are needed to protect their citizens abroad.
Financial Burdens
The financial strains of their military commitments weigh heavily on their families. Medina and Ante sought to alleviate their family debts through their service in Ukraine, but the unforeseen consequences have compounded their challenges.
Expected Outcomes
With potential sentences looming, families fear what a prolonged detainment could mean—both emotionally and financially. The narrative of their struggle has broader implications for how foreign conflicts affect local communities.
Visual Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2023 | José Medina and Alexander Ante depart Colombia for Ukraine. |
| July 18, 2024 | Return journey begins via Venezuela. |
| August 28, 2024 | Arrest announced by Russian authorities. |
| September 20, 2024 | Families continue seeking justice and information. |
Personal Accounts
“Every moment that is happening is like they are killing me,” reflects Luz Amparo Aranda, as she clings to the memories of her son.
A Rallying Cry
Families are uniting to advocate for the rights and welfare of their loved ones, pressured by both the ongoing conflict and diplomatic stagnation. Their determination illustrates a broader call for accountability and recognition of soldiers caught in geopolitical strife.
