During a state visit to Ivory Coast, Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso expressed his belief that Africa cannot ignore the conflict in Ukraine. President Sassou Nguesso highlighted the impact of wars on African nations, including rising inflation, and emphasized the need for Africa to take a stance on such tragedies. His statement comes ahead of a meeting in Kiev and Moscow where several African heads of state, including Sassou Nguesso, will mediate.

Concerns have also arisen about Russia potentially withdrawing from the Ukraine deal, affecting the export of grain and fertilizers from Ukrainian ports. Nguesso mentioned that a delegation of heads of state would travel to Ukraine and Russia to promote peace.

The Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara commended President Sassou Nguesso’s role as a mediator on the continent, noting his success in facilitating reconciliation between past presidents in Ivory Coast.