Ghana FM urges Ukraine to release two Ghanaian POWs
France 24 Europe
by FRANCE24February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ghana's Foreign Minister has called on Ukraine to release two Ghanaian prisoners of war (POWs) being held in the conflict-ridden country. During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the minister emphasized the need for their safe return, citing humanitarian concerns and the importance of adhering to international law. The request was also formalized in a letter addressed to Ukraine's leadership, underscoring Ghana's diplomatic efforts to address the situation.
The两名Ghanaian nationals were reportedly captured during fighting in Ukraine, where they were serving as part of a contingent of foreign fighters. Their case has drawn attention due to the rare occurrence of African soldiers being involved in and affected by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. While exact details about their capture and current conditions are limited, their situation highlights the broader challenges faced by non-national combatants caught up in wars outside their home countries.
Ghana's diplomatic approach reflects its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, even in conflict zones. The country has previously expressed concern over the welfare of its nationals caught in Ukraine's war, which has now escalated into a direct appeal for their release. This move also comes as part of broader international efforts to address the treatment of POWs and ensure compliance with humanitarian laws during times of war.
The case of these two Ghanaian soldiers is a microcosm of the larger issues surrounding prisoners of war in modern conflicts. It raises questions about the treatment of foreign fighters, the role of third-party nations in brokering their release, and the ethical obligations to uphold human rights in war zones. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, such cases are likely to become more common, making Ghana's stance a notable example of diplomatic engagement on behalf of its citizens.
In a broader sense, this situation underscores the global challenges of modern warfare and the need for international cooperation to address the plight of prisoners of war. For readers interested in global affairs, it highlights the interconnectedness of
Verticals
worldeurope
Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/26/2026