At least 62 Ghanaian nationals lured into fighting for Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine have lost their lives, while 15 others remain missing, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
This updated figure marks an increase from the 55 deaths reported by the Minister in February, following his official delegation to Ukraine to address the recruitment of Ghanaian youth into Russia’s military operations.
During that mission, Mr. Ablakwa held talks in Kyiv with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Their discussions centered on ensuring the safety and welfare of affected Ghanaian citizens, with the Minister specifically appealing for the release and protection of two Ghanaians currently held as prisoners of war in Ukraine.
Official records indicate that approximately 272 Ghanaians have been enticed into joining the war since 2022. While 62 have now been confirmed dead and two remain in custody as prisoners of war, the government is still working to establish the whereabouts of the 15 missing individuals.
In a subsequent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the ongoing recruitment of Ghanaian youth into foreign battlefields has become a critical national concern.
@VoltaToday
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
Leave a Comment