Ghana moves to secure release of citizens captured fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Ghana has moved to secure the release of two of its citizens captured in Ukraine while fighting for Russia.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made the appeal on Wednesday during a rare visit to Kyiv, urging President Volodymyr Zelensky to release the detainees on humanitarian grounds.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andriy Sybiga, Ablakwa said Ghana was optimistic about a positive outcome.

“We are quite optimistic that this visit will be very successful and that in my later discussions with President Zelensky, he will be magnanimous and compassionate and on humanitarian grounds release these two Ghanaians to us,” he said.

The minister described the detainees as victims of “manipulation, disinformation and criminal trafficking networks,” alleging they were lured to fight for Russia.

Ukraine disclosed that more than 1,780 citizens from 36 African countries — including Ghana — had been identified among Russia’s ranks since the 2022 invasion, with some captured on the battlefield.

Ablakwa thanked Ukrainian authorities for respecting international law in handling the prisoners, adding that reports indicated they were in good health and had not been subjected to torture or inhumane treatment.

Sybiga said both countries held “frank” discussions about returning the prisoners to Ghana, while urging Accra to intensify efforts to prevent African citizens from being recruited by Russia.

“The Russians are dragging Ghanaians to their deaths, while Ukraine offers cooperation for the sake of life,” he said.