Ukraine Courts Mozambique Amid Food Security Concerns and War with Russia

Image Source: Volodymyr Zelensky

Published by Everything ZA News

MAPUTO, Mozambique – In a strategic move to bolster support in Africa, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a “fruitful” phone call with his Mozambican counterpart, Filipe Nyusi, on Wednesday. This outreach comes as Ukraine grapples with Russia’s invasion and seeks new markets for its crucial grain exports.

The conversation follows a recent flurry of diplomatic activity by Ukraine. Last month, Kyiv opened embassies in Mozambique and several other African nations, highlighting a renewed focus on the continent.

Mozambique holds particular significance. It maintains military ties with Russia, a key adversary of Ukraine. However, the two countries share a longer history of cooperation. During Mozambique’s war for independence in the 1970s, then-Soviet Ukraine provided training to Mozambican guerillas.

Seeking to capitalize on this existing bond, Ukraine is eager to strengthen relations. The newly opened embassy in Maputo is seen as a key tool for “strengthening our bilateral ties,” according to a joint statement by both leaders.

Food security is a central concern for both nations. Ukraine is a major grain exporter, and Mozambique, like many African countries, is vulnerable to food shortages. President Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to share its agricultural expertise in exchange for Mozambique’s support.

Beyond Mozambique, Zelensky has extended invitations to numerous African leaders, including those with close ties to Russia. This outreach underscores Ukraine’s desire to build a broad coalition in the Global South.

The stage for further engagement is set for a Global Peace Summit in Switzerland next month. “Food security will be one of the main topics,” Zelensky stressed via his social media account.

Mozambique’s participation is crucial for Ukraine, not only for potential food deals but also as a symbolic gesture of neutrality amidst the ongoing war.

The urgency of the situation is undeniable. Russia’s invasion has already disrupted global food supplies, and with nearly a quarter of Ukrainian territory currently occupied, the crisis is far from over.

The upcoming summit presents an opportunity for dialogue, not just on food security but also on broader issues like nuclear security and prisoner exchange.

Whether Mozambique and other African nations will fully embrace Ukraine’s overtures remains to be seen. However, Zelensky’s proactive diplomacy suggests a growing recognition of Africa’s importance in the war’s complex geopolitical landscape.