Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday had a phone conversation with President William Ruto to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and ways to deepen cooperation between the two countries.
During their discussion, Zelenskyy briefed Ruto on recent Russian attacks that have targeted civilians and vital infrastructure, highlighting the human toll of the conflict. He expressed appreciation for Kenya’s consistent support, noting the encouragement he received from Ruto’s warm words.
The leaders also addressed concerns over reports that Russia is recruiting foreign nationals to participate in its military campaign. Zelenskyy described these recruitment efforts as fraudulent and criminal and affirmed that Ukraine and Kenya would collaborate closely to put an end to them.
“I had a productive conversation with the President of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto. I informed him about Russia’s attacks on people and infrastructure, and I am grateful for his warm words of support. We touched upon the issue of Russia’s recruitment of foreign citizens into its criminal war. We are aware of all the fraudulent methods being used and will work more closely to put an end to them,” Zelenskyy said.
The discussion also explored ways to strengthen bilateral relations, with both leaders agreeing that their teams will continue to advance joint development projects.
A significant part of the conversation focused on Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia since the start of the war. Zelenskyy said Ukraine will present a resolution at the United Nations this month condemning the abduction and deportation of children, and expressed gratitude for Kenya’s support on the matter.
“We paid special attention to the issue of Ukrainian children. This month, at the United Nations, Ukraine will submit a resolution condemning Russia’s illegal abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children. I am grateful that we can count on Kenya’s support,” Zelenskyy said.
Ukrainian Ambassador to Kenya, Yurii Tokar, described the dialogue as a meaningful step in strengthening Ukraine-Kenya relations.
"We see real understanding and goodwill on both sides - especially in confronting Russia’s fraudulent recruitment and building new areas of cooperation. Both countries are working on several fundamental agreements, particularly in economic cooperation and development, and share a clear view that Moscow’s deceptive practices across Africa are not only a moral issue but a threat to our mutual security," the Ambassador said.
He added that the talks open opportunities for deeper political and economic partnership between the two nations, reinforcing Ukraine’s diplomatic engagement with African countries as the conflict enters its third year.
