At Least 55 Ghanaians Killed Fighting for Russia in Ukraine War

Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced on Friday, February 27, 2026, that at least 55 Ghanaian nationals have died while fighting in Ukraine for Russian forces. Ablakwa similarly stated the government is working to secure the release of two Ghanaians currently held as prisoners of war .

Growing Concerns Over Recruitment

The announcement comes as several African nations express increasing concern over the recruitment of their citizens into the conflict, often through deceptive practices promising lucrative employment or skills training . Ablakwa revealed that approximately 272 Ghanaians are believed to have been lured into the war since 2022 .

Ukrainian Intelligence on African Fighters

According to Ukrainian authorities, more than 1,780 Africans from 36 countries have been recruited to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, falling victim to criminal trafficking networks . Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Ablakwa paid respects to those killed in the war .

Ghana’s Response and Commitment

Ablakwa described the casualty figures as “depressing and frightening,” emphasizing that Ghana “cannot turn a blind eye to these heartbreaking statistics” . He stressed that these numbers represent individual lives and the hopes of Ghanaian families.

The Ghanaian government is committed to dismantling illegal recruitment schemes and launching public awareness campaigns to prevent further exploitation of its youth . “This is not our war and we cannot allow our youth to become human shields for others,” Ablakwa added .

Regional Context

Ghana’s confirmed death toll of 55 is the highest among African countries to date. Local media in Cameroon have reported 94 deaths among its nationals, but these figures remain unconfirmed by authorities. Two South Africans and at least one Kenyan have also died in the conflict .