The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the Ukrainian government has expressed its willingness to hand over some Ghanaians captured while fighting as mercenaries for Russia.

In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Mr Ablakwa said the assurance followed diplomatic engagements with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, whom he thanked for the cooperation and goodwill shown to Ghana.

“See you in Ukraine next month,” the Minister wrote, signalling plans for further high-level discussions to advance the process.

Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the Ghanaian government’s commitment to the protection of its citizens abroad, stressing that the safety and welfare of Ghanaians would remain a top priority, regardless of the difficulties involved.

“The Ghanaian Government will continue to prioritise the safety and welfare of all our citizens, no matter how challenging it might be,” he stated.

He also underscored the strong and cordial relations between Ghana and Ukraine, noting that ongoing diplomatic cooperation continues to yield positive outcomes for both countries.

The development comes amid growing international concern over foreign nationals being recruited or coerced into fighting in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Ghanaian authorities have repeatedly cautioned citizens against involvement in foreign armed conflicts and have intensified diplomatic efforts to secure the release and safe return of affected nationals.

Below is the response from the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister