The Ghanaian government has called on Moscow to cease the recruitment of its citizens into the Russian military, following reports of 55 Ghanaian fatalities in conflict zones.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Ghana’s Foreign Minister stated that Accra is initiating rigorous negotiations with the Kremlin to establish mechanisms aimed at preventing the enlistment of Ghanaians. He noted that there has yet to be any response from the Russian authorities.
“We need to engage with them more,”
the minister emphasized.
The recruitment of African nationals into the Russian military has raised increasing concerns. According to Ukrainian intelligence, over 1,780 Africans from 36 countries are currently fighting alongside Russian forces.
Among them, 272 are reported to be Ghanaians. Of this number, 55 have been confirmed dead, while two others have been captured. Preliminary reports indicate that recruiters have promised foreign nationals salaries ranging from $30,000 to $40,000 per year.
Previously, Kenya and South Africa have reported the repatriation of their citizens who had signed contracts with Russian military forces, claiming they were misled regarding the terms of service.
The Ghanaian government is actively seeking to stop the recruitment of its citizens into the Russian military, following the deaths of 55 Ghanaians. This issue reflects broader concerns about the involvement of African nationals in international conflicts.