INTERVIEW: Many Nigerians worried about suffering caused by Russia’s aggression, says Ukraine’s envoy

It has been three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 — a conflict that has reshaped global alliances, disrupted economies, and tested the resilience of Ukrainians. Beyond the battlefield, Ukraine is waging another fight: a diplomatic push to strengthen ties with Africa — a continent particularly hit by the war impact following the choked global grain supplies — and forging new friendships.

In this interview with TheCable’s CLAIRE MOM, Ivan Kholostenko, Ukraine’s ambassador to Nigeria, speaks on his country’s evolving relationship with Nigeria, the challenges of food security, Africa’s neutral stance on the war, and why the European country sees the continent as a key ally in shaping a new global order. He also shares his surprising love for catfish pepper soup and his thoughts on Nigerian hospitality.

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TheCable: You arrived here in April 2023. When you look back at your time in Nigeria so far, what has struck you the most about the country and its people? Is there any moment that has deeply resonated with you?

Kholostenko: One of the most striking moments happened right at the beginning — when I was first introduced to Nigerian cuisine. I was offered to try catfish pepper soup and beef stew, and to be honest, I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was. The beef stew even reminded me of a traditional Ukrainian dish — beef ragout, which we often serve in a clay pot. This small culinary discovery immediately showed me that our nations have more in common than it might seem at first glance. After all, food often reveals the soul and unique identity of a nation.

Of course, I quickly learned that Nigerian food is much spicier than what I was used to. I’ll admit — I cried a little from the heat and asked for a glass of water, but I kept eating because the flavours were simply irresistible. That experience was more than just a meal. It was an introduction to the warmth and generosity of the Nigerian people, and it left a lasting impression on me.

TheCable: It has been three years since Russia invaded Ukraine. Ambassador, can you describe a specific moment since the beginning of the conflict that deeply impacted you, either personally or professionally? What made that moment so significant?

Kholostenko: Without a doubt, the war that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has been the most challenging ordeal for my country and my people. One of the most profound moments that deeply impacted me was Kyiv’s preparation for defence during the first days of the Russian invasion. Those days shattered everything we believed about the impossibility of full-scale war in the 21st century and revealed the depths of human barbarism. No one knew if Kyiv would survive.

What struck me most was the spirit of the people. I saw ordinary citizens — many without military experience — taking up arms to protect their homes and families. There were long queues at recruitment offices. Even those who stayed home worked tirelessly, making homemade weapons to resist the enemy.

For me, this was more than just a display of resilience; it became a symbol of the unbreakable spirit of Ukrainians. Thanks to these brave people, Kyiv stood firm. I am convinced that it is because of their courage and determination that Ukraine will not only survive but also thrive in the years to come.

Professionally, this conflict has underscored the importance of international solidarity. I am proud that Ukraine and Nigeria continue to stand for peace, sovereignty, and the rule of international law. This experience has strengthened my resolve to foster international partnerships and share the truth about what my people are enduring.

TheCable: How would you characterise Ukraine’s historical relationship with Nigeria, and how has it evolved since the war began?

Kholostenko: Ukraine’s historical relationship with Nigeria has been built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. For decades, our countries have maintained strong educational, economic, and diplomatic ties. One of the most visible aspects of this cooperation has been education. Thousands of Nigerian students have studied in Ukrainian universities, especially in fields like medicine, engineering, and information technology. These educational connections have fostered people-to-people ties that continue to shape our friendship today.

Since the beginning of the war, our relationship has evolved and strengthened. Ukraine remains committed to being a reliable partner to Nigeria, particularly in food security. Despite the challenges caused by Russian aggression, we continue to supply agricultural products to African nations. We have also intensified diplomatic engagement, working together on global issues such as peace, security, and sustainable development.

Moving forward, we see significant potential to expand our cooperation — from increasing trade and investment to deepening educational and cultural exchanges. Ukraine is committed to building a modern, dynamic partnership with Nigeria and the African continent as a whole.

TheCable: What misconceptions about the situation in Ukraine have you encountered in Nigeria, and how do you address them?

Kholostenko: One of the most common misconceptions I have encountered in Nigeria is the belief that the war in Ukraine is over. Through my daily conversations with Nigerians — on the streets, at community events, and in universities — I’ve learned that many people think the conflict has ended. This is not the case. I deeply value these opportunities to engage directly with Nigerians, and I am grateful for this interview to clarify the reality: Russia’s aggression against Ukraine continues, and our defenders are still sacrificing their lives to protect our sovereignty and freedom.

Another misunderstanding is that the conflict is a regional issue. In reality, this war affects the entire world, including Africa. For instance, global food security has been directly sabotaged, as Ukraine is one of the world’s largest suppliers of grain and agricultural products. We are committed to ensuring that Nigerian families and others across Africa continue to have access to affordable food, despite the enormous challenges we face.

I address these misconceptions by engaging openly — whether through public events, media platforms, or personal conversations. I also emphasise that Ukraine is not only defending itself but is also standing up for the principles of sovereignty, freedom, and the right of every nation to choose its own path. It is important for our Nigerian friends to know that their voices matter, and international support is vital for securing peace and justice.

TheCable: When you speak with Nigerians about the war, is there a common tone to the emotions or concerns they express?

Kholostenko: When I speak with Nigerians about the war in Ukraine, I often hear concerns, solidarity, and a deep sense of connection. Many Nigerians are worried about the human suffering caused by Russia’s aggression, and they express support for Ukraine — not only because they value justice and peace, but also because Ukraine has always been welcoming to Nigerians.

I am especially moved by my conversations with Nigerian graduates of Ukrainian universities. Many of them have shared how their Ukrainian education helped them secure their dream jobs back home. For these individuals, Ukraine became a second home, and they describe Russia’s aggression as an attack not just on Ukraine, but on a place they hold dear. Their words reflect the profound bonds of friendship between our nations — bonds built through education and shared experiences.

We deeply value the support of our Nigerian partners and friends during these difficult times. We look forward to the day when Nigerians will once again be able to study in Ukraine, building bridges between our cultures and strengthening the ties that unite us. Education is not just a personal journey, it is also a powerful tool for peace and understanding, and Ukraine remains committed to offering these opportunities to Nigerian students.

TheCable: What gives you hope in these challenging times? 

Kholostenko: What gives me hope are the small, human moments of kindness and resilience that I witness every day. I think about Ukrainian families who, despite losing their homes, find the strength to support one another and rebuild their lives. I remember conversations with Nigerian graduates of Ukrainian universities who tell me how much they cherish their time in Ukraine, how it gave them not just an education, but a sense of belonging. When they say that Ukraine became their second home, it reminds me that what we are defending is not just our land; it is the human connections we’ve built across the world.

I find hope in the fact that, even during war, life does not stop. Ukrainian teachers continue to educate, doctors save lives under unimaginable conditions, and volunteers risk everything to help those in need. It’s these acts of quiet bravery — not just on the battlefield, but in everyday life — that convince me we will prevail.

I find hope in the future we are already building. Despite the war, Ukraine is reaching out to partners like Nigeria to create new opportunities — whether through education, trade, or cultural exchange. This vision of shared futures and unbroken ties is what keeps me moving forward.

TheCable: Let us shift to your country’s outlook on the global stage. One of Ukraine’s foreign policies focuses on strengthening international credibility, improving the country’s profile and attractiveness on the world stage and overcoming distorted and outdated stereotypes through the means of public and cultural diplomacy. Tell me about how you have been able to achieve that in Nigeria.

Kholostenko: I am grateful for this question because we deeply value the opportunity to build cultural connections with African countries, including Nigeria. Public and cultural diplomacy is a crucial tool for strengthening Ukraine’s international credibility and breaking outdated stereotypes. Through these efforts, we aim not only to share Ukrainian culture but also to learn from and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of African nations.

One of the ways we achieve this is by organising visits of Ukrainian cultural figures to Nigeria. These visits foster mutual understanding, allow for the exchange of ideas, and highlight the modern, dynamic side of Ukraine. We also work closely with our partner countries to facilitate visits of Nigerian journalists to Ukraine. Seeing Ukraine firsthand enables them to share accurate stories and authentic experiences with the Nigerian public, helping to dispel myths and present a true picture of our nation.

It is equally important to us that this cooperation is mutual. We actively work to introduce Ukrainians to the diverse and vibrant cultures of African countries, including Nigeria. Through various cultural events, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for Africa’s rich history and traditions.

In today’s world, no country stands alone. We must walk hand in hand as partners, learning from one another and building a shared brighter future. Ukraine remains committed to expanding these cultural ties, believing that they are essential for global understanding and lasting friendship.

TheCable: Has Russia’s invasion reshaped Ukraine’s global diplomatic approach, especially toward Africa?

Kholostenko: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has reshaped the entire global geopolitical landscape. It has undermined the architecture of global security and called into question universal norms such as territorial integrity, sovereignty, respect for human life and dignity. Moreover, it has removed geopolitical masks, revealing who truly stands for freedom and justice. As the Hausa people in Nigeria wisely say, ‘Za ka san wanene abokin ka a lokacin wahala’, which means ‘You know your friend in times of difficulty’. This saying resonates deeply with us. Ukraine has re-evaluated its relationships and redefined who its true allies and friends are.

In this context, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has launched a new foreign policy direction aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s relationships with African countries. This approach was not built from scratch. Both the Ukrainian Soviet Socialistic Republic and independent Ukraine have a long tradition of friendly relations with Africa. 

We believe that in the new world that will emerge after this war, Ukraine can count on Nigeria as a friend and partner. Our shared history of cooperation — from education and cultural exchange to economic collaboration — is a solid foundation to build a future together. We see Nigeria not only as a key player on the African continent but also as a nation that understands the importance of freedom, sovereignty, and mutual respect. Ukraine is committed to ensuring that our partnership with Nigeria grows even stronger, based on these shared values and a vision for a better future.

TheCable: Russia has been accused of deploying different unwelcoming tactics to win the war, including disinformation. A lot of people still do not understand why disinformation is a tactic. Do you think it is working, and what are your general thoughts on the subject?

Kholostenko: This is a very good question. I would even make matters worse. Disinformation is not just a tactic; it is a weapon. Russia uses it to confuse, divide, and manipulate public opinion, both in Ukraine and around the world. This is not a new strategy for Russia. For decades, it has relied on propaganda and false narratives to weaken its opponents and mask its own aggression. What makes it especially dangerous today is the speed and reach of modern technology. False information can spread faster and further than ever before, creating doubt and distrust even when the facts are clear.

Unfortunately, in some places, Russian disinformation has found an audience. It tries to blur the reality of who is the aggressor and who is the victim. 

Yet, we are armed with a superior weapon to counter disinformation — the truth.

In Nigeria, I am grateful for the opportunity to speak directly with citizens, journalists, and community leaders. I value conversations with Nigerians — in the streets or at public events — because they allow me to share accurate information and understand how Russian disinformation is perceived here. When we provide the truth, people can see through the lies.

But this fight against disinformation is not just Ukraine’s battle; it is a global issue. Disinformation weakens trust in institutions, destabilises societies, and threatens democratic values. I believe that by working together — through transparency, honest communication, and stronger media partnerships — we can overcome falsehoods and protect the truth. 

TheCable: You speak about partnerships. In a general context, some African countries have maintained a neutral stance on the war. How does Ukraine view this position, and what would you say to African leaders about the stakes of the conflict?

KHOLOSTENKO: We respect the sovereign right of every nation, including African countries, to define their foreign policy and position on international issues. We understand that many African states prioritise peace, stability, and non-alignment — values that Ukraine itself shares. However, I believe it is essential to recognise that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is not just a regional conflict. It is a direct challenge to international law and the sovereignty of all nations.

By resisting Russia, Ukraine is standing against the spread of neocolonialism. Russia’s goal is to seize Ukrainian territories and reduce our sovereign nation to a colony of a new Russian empire. 

When one country is allowed to invade another without consequences, it sets a dangerous precedent for the entire world. Today, it is Ukraine — but any country could be next. 

I would say to African leaders: Your voice matters. African countries have a rich history of fighting for self-determination, freedom, and sovereignty — values that Ukraine is defending today. Neutrality in the face of aggression can often empower the aggressor and undermine the very international order that protects smaller and medium-sized nations. By standing with Ukraine, African countries are also defending the principles that protect their own territorial integrity and political independence.

We are grateful to the African nations, including Nigeria, that have spoken out in defence of Ukraine’s sovereignty at the United Nations and other international platforms. We believe that Africa’s voice is crucial to shaping a world where peace, justice, and mutual respect prevail. Ukraine is ready to be a partner to African countries not only in economic and cultural cooperation but also in building a more just and secure world together.

TheCable: What do you want Nigerians to understand about Ukraine beyond the war headlines?

Kholostenko: I want Nigerians to see Ukraine as a country of resilience, innovation, and cultural richness — a nation that is much more than just the headlines about war. While the war has become a defining challenge for us, our identity is not limited to conflict. Ukraine is a country with a thousand-year-old history, a vibrant cultural heritage, and a modern, forward-looking society.

I want Nigerians to know one of the most profound aspects of Ukraine’s identity — our deep-rooted desire for freedom and self-determination. Throughout our history, Ukrainians have always strived to live freely — whether resisting empires, asserting our independence, or defending our sovereignty today. This spirit of freedom is not just a political goal; it is a core part of who we are. Our ongoing struggle is a testament to the fact that freedom is never given. It is earned and defended.

I want Nigerians to know that Ukraine is a global leader in several areas. We are known for our agricultural expertise, as one of the world’s largest producers of grain. We are also at the forefront of technology and innovation, with a thriving IT sector that powers businesses worldwide. Our artists, musicians, and filmmakers contribute to the global cultural landscape, bringing a unique perspective shaped by both our history and modern creativity.

Most importantly, I want Nigerians to know that Ukraine is a nation of hope. Despite the challenges we face, we remain optimistic about the future. We believe in the power of international friendship and partnerships, and we see Nigeria as a valuable partner in building a future where peace, development, and shared prosperity are possible.

TheCable: If you had to describe Ukraine’s future in a single sentence, what would it be? 

Kholostenko: Ukraine’s future is a story still being written — on the scrolls of glorious history, by the hands of our children.