256 Colombians have now died and 973 are missing in the war between Russia and Ukraine

The war between Russia and Ukraine is costing many Colombian lives. According to Colombia's Foreign Ministry, 256 Colombians have died and 973 are missing in the conflict.

How the figures have grown

In June, the ministry spoke of 173 dead and 670 missing. In just four months, the figures have risen sharply.

Of the deaths, 162 cases came from information from Ukraine and 94 from Russia. Of the missing, 676 are from Ukrainian territory and 297 from Russia. The figures are still being verified.

The Foreign Ministry has received 1,927 requests for consular help related to Colombians in this war: 1,013 about Russia and 914 about Ukraine.

They fight on both sides

There are Colombians in the armies of both countries. The ministry has warned about misleading job offers that end up taking some of them to the front.

What Colombia is asking for

Back in September, the government formally asked Russia and Ukraine to stop recruiting Colombians and to help those already there return. Colombia says it does not support, encourage or authorize its citizens taking part in other countries' wars.

There could be more

The ministry warns that the real figures could be higher, because many Colombians travel on their own and without informing the authorities.