Ghana Says 55 Nationals Died Fighting for Russia in Ukraine

Ghana has reported that at least 55 citizens have died fighting for Russia since 2022, with 272 reportedly lured into the conflict.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said this during his visit to Ukraine where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky to request the release of two Ghanaian prisoners of war captured while fighting for Russia.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, Ablakwa described the prisoners as “victims of criminal networks” who were “offered jobs” online to join the conflict.

Sybiga said more than 1,780 African citizens from 36 countries are currently fighting in Russia’s ranks.

Ablakwa confirmed that the two detainees are in good health and have not suffered torture or inhumane treatment, citing Ukrainian authorities.

Both sides discussed the potential repatriation of the prisoners, and Sybiga urged Ghana to step up measures to prevent citizens from being recruited by Russia.

Zelensky confirmed “detailed discussions” with Ablakwa about the recruitment of Ghanaian and other African citizens, though he did not specifically mention the two prisoners. (Agencies)