On October 13, 2023, Special Representative of Ukraine for the Middle East and Africa Maksym Subkh participated online in a briefing on countering Russian propaganda in Africa. The event was organized by the Centre for Countering Disinformation of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine.

Maksym Subkh explained that Russia systematically disseminates disinformation in Africa and destabilizes the situation in certain countries of the continent. Ukraine actively counters these Russian campaigns, using a broad spectrum of tools and means, including in collaboration with our foreign partners.

The Ukrainian diplomat noted Russia’s unacceptable use of food security manipulations and agricultural product deliveries to pressure other nations. “African countries are not interested in one-time ‘gifts’ of grain from Russia but in stable and predictable grain supplies. The uninterrupted operation of the Black Sea grain corridor is the best tool to achieve this goal, so other countries, primarily in Africa, should exert stronger pressure on Russia,” stated the Special Representative of Ukraine for the Middle East and Africa.

He highlighted that, unlike Russia, which tries to win the favour of certain African countries by supplying grain, the Ukrainian President’s initiative "Grain from Ukraine" is aimed at assisting the needy populations of Africa and Asia without imposing political or any other conditions. Owing to our country’s close partnership with the UN World Food Program, the Ukrainian grain reaches specifically those countries that need it most.

Maksym Subkh shared information regarding the comprehensive efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, in coordination with the Office of the President of Ukraine and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, aimed at minimizing Russia’s destructive activities in Africa. He also discussed how the image of Ukraine as a reliable and predictable political and trade-economic partner, as well as a guarantor of global food security is promoted.