Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, has held high-level talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, focusing on efforts to secure the release of two Ghanaian nationals being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine.
According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the meeting centred on Ghana’s humanitarian appeal for the release of the detained citizens, whose rights he said must be protected in accordance with international law.
He expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations, noting that discussions were progressing positively.
The talks also addressed growing concerns over trafficking networks targeting vulnerable African youth with false promises, only to expose them to dangerous conditions linked to the ongoing conflict. Both countries explored ways to strengthen cooperation to combat such criminal activities and protect young people from exploitation.
Mr Ablakwa conveyed the appreciation of John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana to the Ukrainian authorities for safeguarding the welfare and legal rights of the detained Ghanaians.
Beyond the prisoner negotiations, the two leaders agreed to deepen bilateral relations through strategic partnerships in agriculture, defence, education, and trade.
President Zelenskyy also extended a formal invitation to President Mahama to visit Kyiv, signalling Ukraine’s intention to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with Ghana.
The engagement marks a significant diplomatic step as Ghana intensifies efforts to protect its citizens abroad while expanding international cooperation across key sectors.
