Ukraine Seeks to Expand Diplomatic Presence in Africa with New Embassies

Editors note: Africans have not forgotten and will never forget the treatment of African students who were stopped from leaving Ukraine at the start of the war. We haven’t forgotten how these students were beaten by police armed with sticks. The racist treatment of our sons and daughters, brothers and sisters who were refused board on trains and refused entry into Poland. One Africa News Today attempts to bring you news and events as they happen. We are in no way promoting the below. It is simply news.

Ukraine is trying to demonstrate its commitment to deepening ties with Africa by inaugurating new embassies in Ivory Coast and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of a strategic move to strengthen support for Ukraine and counter Russian influence on the continent.

Deputy Foreign Minister Maksym Subkh emphasised the significance of these developments, stating that they mark a new chapter in the history of Ukraine-Africa relations. These initiatives are in line with the directives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to expand Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Africa.

The opening of the embassy in Kinshasa, DRC’s capital, underscores Ukraine’s proactive approach to engaging with African nations. Plans are underway to establish additional embassies in Ghana, Mozambique, Botswana, and Rwanda, further enhancing Ukraine’s diplomatic footprint in the region.

Subkh’s remarks during the embassy openings highlighted the global impact of the conflict in Ukraine, emphasising the ripple effects on African countries, particularly through rising food prices, which have affected millions of families across the continent.

Furthermore, Subkh expressed gratitude to Ivory Coast for its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He commended Ivory Coast’s stance in favour of key resolutions at the United Nations addressing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine since February 2022.

Ukraine’s efforts to expand diplomatic ties in Africa reflect a strategic shift aimed at fostering stronger partnerships and countering geopolitical challenges. These diplomatic initiatives underscore Ukraine’s commitment to engaging with African nations on shared priorities and promoting mutual cooperation in various sectors, including trade, agriculture, industry, energy, education, and technology.