The Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, openly praised the Nigerian government for its unwavering support since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Speaking on Sunday in Abuja, Ambassador Kholostenko attended a private event where the Ukrainian Embassy opened a condolence register.
The register honors victims of recent Russian attacks on civilian areas, which tragically claimed many innocent lives, including children.
This event marks the sixth time since April that the Ukrainian Embassy has opened such a register to allow Nigerians and friends of Ukraine to express their solidarity.
The ambassador stressed the importance of continued global attention on the crisis and urged everyone not to forget the human cost of the conflict.
“We know that Nigerians, like Ukrainians, deeply understand the value of freedom,” Kholostenko said.
He further expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nigerians for standing firmly with Ukraine throughout these difficult times.
Moreover, the ambassador condemned Russia’s aggressive tactics during the conflict.
He accused Russian forces of deliberately targeting civilians.
In particular, Kholostenko highlighted Russia’s use of cluster munitions highly controversial weapons known for causing indiscriminate harm.
Additionally, he called out “shameful tactics” employed by Russia, such as bombing the same location twice to kill rescuers who arrive after the first attack.
Drawing on the latest United Nations data, Kholostenko revealed that Russia had killed 13,341 civilians by May 31, 2025.
Thousands more have suffered injuries due to ongoing hostilities.
He also noted that June recorded the highest civilian death toll in three years, reflecting an alarming escalation.
Furthermore, the ambassador characterized Russia’s recent surge in attacks as a deliberate act of defiance.
He explained that these intensified strikes followed widespread international calls for a ceasefire. According to Kholostenko, Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to send a clear message by disregarding peace efforts.
Kholostenko went on to describe Putin’s military forces as weak and demoralized.
Therefore, he claimed, the Kremlin relies heavily on terrorizing civilians as a strategy to maintain control. This brutal tactic only deepens the humanitarian crisis unfolding across Ukraine.
In conclusion, Ambassador Ivan Kholostenko’s remarks underscored the urgent need for continued international solidarity and pressure on Russia.
As the conflict enters its fourth year, the people of Ukraine and their supporters worldwide must remain vigilant and vocal in their call for peace.
