Question: In what other ways can African countries act against the war?
The United States of America has called on the African communities to demonstrate unity and speak with one voice against Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
The U.S Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee, said while speaking to African journalists at a digital press briefing that the reason, she sought to talk to African journalists was because African voices matter in the international community and in the global conversation. She stressed the need for the international community to speak with one voice against the Russian-Ukraine crisis. “We believe that it is critical at this moment and time, that the entire international community demonstrates unity and speaks with one voice against this aggression and in support of timeless principles. This includes sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes and protection of civilians. Yesterday the UN general assembly voted for a resolution that condemned this aggression and that vote was higher than almost any vote count we have seen in response to international events”.
Speaking further she said “we, the United States are sensitive to the legacy of the Cold War, particularly in Africa. The position and policy of the Biden administration has been to encourage more, not fewer choices for Africans”. She said Putin’s unprovoked aggression is an assault on world order. She urged Africans to join the US in choosing the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes and protection of civilians. “I also know that there has been genuine concern and alarm about the treatments of Africans who have been studying in Ukraine. I want you to know that we are proud of Ukraine. The foreign minister has made clear that all individuals caught up in the chaos of this war must receive equal treatment. The government of Ukraine has established emergency hotlines for African students.” She said the U.S has also spoken to neighbouring countries about the need for visa-free entry to help people caught up in the crisis. She also said, “We are working with our partners in the UN who are providing assistance to underscore the need that every individual deserves assistance and should receive assistance without regard to race, religion or nationality”.
