President John Dramani Mahama says he intends to use his planned visit to Russia to urge President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine.
Speaking at the Financial Times Africa Summit in London, Mahama disclosed the plan while discussing Russia’s military involvement in the Sahel and the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism.
Asked about Russian military units supporting governments in the Sahel, the President said countries should be allowed to work with any partner willing to help fight terrorism.
“My opinion is that anybody who is committed to the fight against terrorism is welcome,” he said.
Mahama cited Ghana’s security partnerships with the United Kingdom, Germany, France and the United States, explaining that these relationships involve intelligence sharing and joint training.
He also emphasised Ghana’s non-alignment policy, which he said allows the country to maintain friendly relations with different global powers, including Russia.
“We are friends to all and enemies to none,” he said.
The President then revealed that he hoped to use the Russia–Africa Summit as an opportunity to engage Putin on ending the fighting in Ukraine.
“Indeed, I’m going to Russia for the Russia-Africa summit and try to convince President Putin to have a ceasefire if I can,” he said.
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, triggering a war that has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, negotiations have faced significant challenges, including disagreements over the terms of a possible settlement. Mahama’s proposed engagement with Putin would form part of his efforts to encourage a halt to the fighting.
