Ghana has begun diplomatic negotiations with Ukraine to secure the release of a Ghanaian national who is being held as a prisoner of war, the country’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said.
In a Facebook post, Ablakwa confirmed that the individual’s identity has been verified following notification of his arrest by the Ukrainian government.
Details
According to evidence reviewed by Ghanaian authorities, the national travelled to Moscow, Russia on 7 July 2024 and signed a contract with the 2nd Assault Company of the 71st Motorized Rifle Regiment, part of the 42nd Motorized Rifle Division.
He subsequently took part in hostilities in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Ablakwa said he met with Ukraine’s Acting Ambassador to Ghana, Ivan Lukachuk, and formally appealed for the Ghanaian’s release.
Visit
A special diplomatic message has also been sent to Kyiv, and Ablakwa indicated he is planning a visit to Ukraine in the coming weeks to continue negotiations.
Ghana has objected to the possibility of its citizen being included in a prisoner-of-war exchange between Ukraine and Russia, citing concerns that such a move could place him at greater risk.
The minister stressed that Ghana hopes its “intense diplomatic efforts” and longstanding relations with Ukraine will facilitate the safe return of its national.
Appeal
He also appealed to young Ghanaians to avoid involvement in foreign conflicts, warning against recruitment networks and human trafficking operations that often operate online.
“Please do not fall prey. It is extremely dangerous to get involved in any conflict, you can be killed or captured,” Ablakwa said, adding that the government is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all Ghanaians.
The Mahama administration has said it will continue prioritising the protection of citizens abroad, ensuring that no Ghanaian is left in harm’s way.
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