Zelenskyy and Ghana's Foreign Minister Address African Nationals Fighting for Russia in Ukraine War.

Ukrainian President Meets with Ghana's Foreign Minister

According to Novyny.live: On February 25, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Ghana's Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The discussions centered on bilateral cooperation and the concerning involvement of Ghanaian citizens in the war against Ukraine. Specifically, it was noted that 272 Ghanaian nationals, along with approximately 1,700 citizens from other African states, are currently fighting on Russia's side. This meeting highlights Ukraine's diplomatic efforts to counter Russia's recruitment of foreign fighters from across the globe.

President Zelenskyy thanked Minister Ablakwa for his visit, which marks the first of its kind in the history of Ukraine-Ghana relations.

"Met with Ghana's Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. I thank the Minister for this visit,"

Areas of Cooperation and Future Relations

The meeting also explored other potential areas for collaboration, including:

• agriculture
• defense cooperation
• education for Ghanaian students at Ukrainian universities

According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, at least 1,436 citizens from 36 African countries are fighting within the Russian Federation's armed forces, underscoring the critical need for international cooperation in resolving the conflict.

It is significant to note that Ghana is set to chair the African Union next year, which presents new opportunities for deepening bilateral ties and collaborative work on the international stage. Thus, the meeting represents a vital step in strengthening Ukraine-Ghana cooperation and in addressing external threats to Ukraine's security.

The engagement between Ukraine and Ghana reflects the growing importance of international partnerships amid contemporary global challenges. As the incoming chair of the African Union, Ghana is positioned to not only enhance its relationship with Ukraine but also to influence geopolitical dynamics across the African continent. Support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and discussions on joint initiatives open new avenues for bilateral development and regional security.