Ghanaians Recruited Into Russia-Ukraine War: 272 Drawn Into Conflict, 55 Dead
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272 Ghanaians Recruited Into Russia-Ukraine War Since 2022, About 55 Dead – Ablakwa
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that approximately 272 Ghanaians have been recruited into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war since 2022, with many reportedly lured through deceptive overseas job offers before being deployed to the battlefield.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, July 27, after the arrival of 150 evacuated Ghanaians from South Africa, Mr. Ablakwa described the situation as deeply concerning, saying the government is intensifying efforts to protect Ghanaian citizens from falling victim to fraudulent recruitment schemes.
Many Recruited Through Fake Job Offers
According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, information gathered during his recent visit to Kyiv indicates that hundreds of young Ghanaians were persuaded to travel abroad with promises of employment but ultimately found themselves participating in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
“The Government of Ghana is seriously worried about the reports of Ghanaian youth who are lured through deceptive employment schemes and subsequently deployed to participate in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia,” he said.
He disclosed that an estimated 272 Ghanaians have been recruited into the conflict since 2022.
About 55 Ghanaians Reported Dead
Mr. Ablakwa further revealed that the conflict has already claimed the lives of an estimated 55 Ghanaian nationals.
He described the figures as alarming and said the government remains committed to supporting affected families while working with international partners to address the situation.
The revelation highlights the growing dangers posed by illegal international recruitment networks targeting vulnerable job seekers.
Two Ghanaians Still Held as Prisoners of War
The Foreign Affairs Minister also confirmed that two Ghanaians remain in captivity as prisoners of war.
According to him, the government is actively engaging the relevant authorities to secure their release, adding that negotiations have been encouraging.
“Two are held as prisoners of war, and we continue to negotiate their release. The talks are proving positive. We are optimistic about the outcome,” he stated.
Government Warns Against Fraudulent Overseas Recruitment
The government has urged young Ghanaians to exercise extreme caution when pursuing employment opportunities abroad and to verify all recruitment offers through the appropriate state institutions before travelling.
Officials say many of the affected individuals were deceived by fraudulent recruiters who promised legitimate jobs but instead facilitated their deployment into the ongoing conflict.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the government says protecting Ghanaian citizens overseas remains a priority while pursuing the safe return of those still trapped by the war.
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