Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, revealed that more than 1,700 mercenaries from 36 African nations are currently participating in the conflict on the side of Russia. This information was disclosed during a joint press conference with Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, in Kyiv.
Kuleba emphasized that Russia is actively recruiting individuals from Africa to fight in Ukraine, describing these actions as exploitative. “We clearly see that the Russian Federation is attempting to drag African citizens into this war, leading them to their deaths,” he stated. He urged African nations to take measures against this recruitment and to work collaboratively with Ukraine to expose these schemes.
The press conference marked a significant diplomatic engagement, as it was the first visit by an African foreign minister to Ukraine since the onset of the full-scale invasion. Kuleba’s remarks highlight the growing concern over foreign mercenaries in the conflict, as their involvement raises questions about the implications for both the countries they come from and the ongoing war.
In January, Kuleba had addressed a request regarding a detained Ghanaian citizen and subsequently invited Ablakwa to Ukraine, further strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations.
As the war continues, the recruitment of mercenaries from various countries may complicate the situation, leading to increased international scrutiny and calls for accountability from Russia.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister has reported that over 1,700 mercenaries from 36 African nations are fighting for Russia, raising concerns about exploitation and international involvement in the conflict. This revelation comes during a significant diplomatic visit from Ghana's Foreign Minister, emphasizing the need for cooperation to combat such recruitment efforts.
Source: Interfax-Ukraine