Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that Ghana has commenced high-level diplomatic negotiations with Ukraine to secure the release of a Ghanaian citizen currently detained as a prisoner of war.
In a detailed statement, the Minister revealed that Ukrainian authorities have informed Ghana of the arrest and provided the individual’s identity, which has since been verified by Ghanaian officials.
Evidence shared by Ukraine indicates that the Ghanaian national arrived in Moscow, Russia, on July 7, 2024, where records show he signed a contract to join the 2nd Assault Company of the 71st Motorized Rifle Regiment within the 42nd Motorized Rifle Division. He subsequently took part in combat operations in the Zaporizhzhia sector.
Yesterday, Hon. Ablakwa met with Ukraine’s Acting Ambassador to Ghana, Ivan Lukachuk, during which he formally appealed for the citizen’s repatriation. A special diplomatic message has also been dispatched to Kyiv.
The Minister further disclosed plans to travel to Ukraine in the coming weeks to personally advance negotiations for the individual’s release.
Ghana has strongly opposed any inclusion of its national in potential prisoner-of-war exchanges between Ukraine and Russia, citing concerns that such a process could heighten risks to his safety.
“We remain optimistic that our sustained diplomatic engagement will succeed, bolstered by the strong bilateral ties between our nations and Ghana’s consistent advocacy for peace and an immediate end to the conflict,” the statement read.
Hon. Ablakwa seized the opportunity to issue a stern warning to Ghanaian youth about the dangers posed by clandestine recruitment and human trafficking networks, often operating via the dark web.
“I passionately appeal to the youth of Ghana: Stay vigilant against these criminal schemes. Do not become victims—it is extraordinarily perilous to involve yourself in any foreign conflict. You risk death or capture,” he urged.
The Mahama administration reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all Ghanaians, stating: “We will continue to prioritize the welfare of every citizen and ensure no one is left behind in danger.”
For God and Country 🇬🇠🙏🏾