The Tanzanian government, which has maintained a neutral stance at the United Nations regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, has canceled the scheduled visit of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba for the second time, a move that has left Kyiv officials frustrated.

A senior Ukrainian official expressed disappointment to KFP over Tanzania’s decision to remain neutral during UN votes condemning Russia and the cancellation of their top diplomat’s trip.

“They canceled Kuleba’s visit, they have been abstaining. Probably they want to be absolutely neutral but this is not right,” the official remarked.

Kuleba’s African tour, which took place from August 4 to 8, aimed to gain support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. He ended up visiting Malawi, Zambia, and Mauritius instead of Tanzania, which had initially confirmed logistics for the visit.

Although bilateral issues were discussed during the meetings, the main focus was on garnering support to restore peace and marginalize Russia in the region.

The supply of Ukrainian grain to African countries and their involvement in Ukraine’s reconstruction were also on the agenda.

Tanzania, however, has consistently abstained or been absent during UN votes on the conflict, prompting Kuleba to attempt to engage Dodoma more actively.

Despite these efforts, Tanzania emphasized its desire to remain neutral, arguing that taking a unilateral stance would limit opportunities for bilateral relations, including with Russia.

The visit was postponed just days after Tanzania’s Foreign Minister, January Makamba, who had approved the trip, was fired. A similar cancellation occurred last October when Kuleba’s visit was called off due to “unforeseen circumstances.”

At that time, the visit had been approved by former Foreign Minister Liberata Mulamula, who was also dismissed just before the cancellation.

Despite Tanzania’s initial interest in hosting the Ukrainian foreign minister, the repeated cancellations suggest a reluctance to fully engage.

Meanwhile, Russia maintains a permanent presence in Tanzania with an embassy, while Ukraine’s diplomatic relations with Dodoma are managed from their Nairobi office.

Russia’s influence in Tanzania has evolved over the years, transitioning from a significant role in the country’s liberation movement to its current position as an arms supplier.