The African Vector of Ukrainian Diplomacy: Viktor NIKITIUK Delivers Lecture to International Relations Students
On March 15, 2026, the Institute of International Relations hosted a meeting between students and an experienced diplomat, Viktor NIKITIUK, Deputy Director of the Department for Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The lecture focused on the theme: "The African Union. African Regional Organizations. EU-Africa-Ukraine."
The event brought together first-year Bachelor students of the "International Regional Studies" program and Master’s students of the "Regional Studies" program. The meeting was organized with the support of the Department of International Organizations and Diplomatic Service as part of the courses "Regional Geography of the Modern World" (Assoc. Prof. R. Kryvonos) and "Current Security Issues in Asia, Africa, and Oceania" (Asst. A. Raikov).

Key Discussion Topics:
- The Role of the African Union: The peace and security architecture on the continent.
- Regional Integration: The activities of leading African organizations and their influence on global processes.
- The Cooperation Triangle: Strategic priorities in EU-Africa-Ukraine relations.
Viktor NIKITIUK spoke in detail about the practical aspects of implementing the Ukrainian-African Strategy, the expansion of Ukraine's diplomatic presence in the region, and the vital importance of training professional regional experts to strengthen Ukraine's positions in the "Global South."
Students had the opportunity to ask questions regarding security challenges in Africa, the specifics of diplomatic work within regional organizations, and the prospects for economic cooperation following Ukraine's victory.
We sincerely thank Mr. Viktor NIKITIUK for a professional discussion and the opportunity to view modern diplomacy through the lens of practical experience!