President William Ruto on Thursday held a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, focusing on the safety of Kenyan citizens, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and emerging security concerns affecting both countries.
President Ruto said the discussion was “fruitful”, noting that the two leaders talked about “various issues of mutual interest between our two peoples and countries.”
Central to the call was the growing concern over young Kenyans who have been illegally recruited into the conflict in Ukraine.
The Head of State said they “expressed concern over young Kenyans who have been illegally recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine,” adding that both sides agreed to raise awareness about “the dangers of such ventures.”
He said he asked his Ukrainian counterpart to help secure the freedom of any Kenyan detained in Ukraine.
“I have requested President Zelensky to facilitate the release of any Kenyan in Ukrainian custody,” Ruto said. “I am grateful to His Excellency for acceding to my appeal.”
Earlier, President Zelenskyy said he had briefed Ruto on recent Russian attacks targeting civilians and key infrastructure. He said he valued Kenya’s continued solidarity, noting he was grateful for Ruto’s “warm words of support.”
Zelenskyy said he updated President Ruto on what he described as the recruitment of foreign nationals into Russia’s military campaign. He called the activities “fraudulent” and “criminal”, adding that closer cooperation between Nairobi and Kyiv would help fight the scheme.
“We touched upon the issue of Russia’s recruitment of foreign citizens into its criminal war,” Zelenskyy said. “We are aware of all the fraudulent methods being used and will work more closely to put an end to them.”
The Ukrainian leader said the call was “productive,” adding that he appreciated Kenya’s position on the war. The leaders also discussed upcoming international efforts related to food security.
Ruto said he commended Zelenskyy for the Ukraine Food Summit scheduled for later this month. He noted that Kenya supports initiatives that enhance global food supply chains and protect vulnerable nations from the shocks of ongoing conflicts.
The phone call underscores the growing diplomatic engagement between Nairobi and Kyiv, coming at a time when African nations are increasingly vocal about the welfare of their citizens abroad and the broader consequences of the war.
Both leaders signalled a commitment to cooperation, particularly in safeguarding Kenyans who may be lured into foreign conflicts and in addressing global challenges linked to the war.
by STAR REPORTER
