Ukraine Foreign Minister To Visit Africa, Seek More Support In War Against Russia

Amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, efforts are underway to increase African involvement.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is set to embark on a diplomatic tour of three African nations this week, seeking to garner support for Ukraine’s stance in the war.

This will be Kuleba’s fourth visit to Africa in two years, with his upcoming trip scheduled for August 4-8, targeting Malawi, Zambia, and Mauritius, according to Reuters.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry announced the trip, highlighting Kuleba’s continued efforts to strengthen ties with African countries.

“All meetings will focus on the development of bilateral relations based on mutual respect and interests. Among the key topics will be the participation of African states in global efforts to restore a just peace for Ukraine and the world,” it said.

African nations have been cautious in joining Western efforts to isolate Russia, a key supplier of energy and commodities, despite participating in a Ukraine-focused conference in Switzerland last June.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has announced that upcoming talks with African countries will prioritise two main issues: the supply of Ukrainian grain to the region and African companies’ involvement in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Ukraine has been strengthening its diplomatic presence in Africa, having recently opened new embassies in several countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Rwanda, Botswana, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to intensify, with neither side showing willingness to negotiate a truce.