African countries try to evacuate citizens amid Russia-Ukraine crisis , Most countries asking citizens to cross border into other countries African Union calls for immediate ceasefire and talks
Reports emerging amid the Russia – Ukraine crisis, is that Blacks – especially African nationals – are being profiled as they try to leave Ukraine into neighbouring countries.
Tweets on Saturday indicated that some Africans were blocked by Ukrainian security officials from boarding trains leaving Ukraine as authorities give precedence to women, children and whites.
Viral videos on social media allege – show – African nationals being stopped from boarding rescue trains that will transport them into Poland.
There is also a viral video purportedly of African being threatened at the Polish borders. Most African countries do not have embassies in Ukraine and have asked their stranded nationals to cross into neighbouring states to receive consular assistance.
The African Union through its current President, Macky Sall of Senegal, and the AU Chairperson, have called for cessation of hostilities and talks to resolve the impasse.
“The treatment of black people at the Ukraine-Polish border is what we mean when we say that in a period of crisis, people who are already discriminated against will suffer the effects disproportionately. Also remember: racism doesn’t care about your education or class,” Nigerian novelist Ayo Sogunro tweeted.
“Black Africans are being treated with racism and contempt in Ukraine & Poland. West cannot ask African nations to stand in solidarity with them if they cannot display basic respect for us even in a time of war. Ignored in a pandemic and left to die in war?!!
