Accra, Ghana — The Ghanaian government has opened diplomatic talks with Ukraine to secure the release of a Ghanaian national currently detained as a prisoner of war, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed yesterday.
According to Ablakwa, Ukrainian authorities notified Ghana of the arrest and provided the identity of the national, which has since been verified. Records indicate the individual arrived in Moscow, Russia on July 7, 2024, where he signed a contract with the 2nd Assault Company of the 71st Motorized Rifle Regiment of the 42nd Motorized Rifle Division. He reportedly took part in hostilities near Zaporizhzhia.
Ablakwa met with Ukraine’s Acting Ambassador to Ghana, Ivan Lukachuk, appealing for the immediate release of the national. A special message has been sent to Kyiv, and Ablakwa is scheduled to travel to Ukraine in the coming weeks to continue negotiations.
Ghana has expressed concern over the possibility of the national being included in a prisoner of war exchange between Ukraine and Russia, warning that this could increase his vulnerability. The government remains hopeful that diplomatic efforts, underpinned by Ghana’s peaceful stance and international relations, will secure his release.
The minister also used the statement to warn Ghanaian youth against falling victim to criminal recruitment and human trafficking networks operating online. Ablakwa said such involvement in conflicts abroad is extremely dangerous and can result in death or detention.
He assured that the Mahama administration continues to prioritize the safety and welfare of all Ghanaians abroad.
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