CDF Muhoozi hails outgoing Russian ambassador

KAMPALA - The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has bid farewell to the outgoing Russian Ambassador to Uganda, Vladlen Semivolos.

During the engagement at the Special Forces Command (SFC) headquarters in Entebbe, Gen Kainerugaba, earlier today (March 24), commended Semivolos for deepening strategic military cooperation between the two countries.

Appreciating the ambassador’s contribution to strengthening the longstanding partnership between Uganda and Russia, Gen Muhoozi noted that the relationship between the two nations remains firm, anchored in shared historical ties and a common commitment to regional stability.

A media release from his office states that  Gen Kainerugaba highlighted the role of Russian support in the modernisation and professionalisation of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), describing the technical cooperation and specialised collaboration during Semivolos’ tenure as invaluable.

He said the support has enhanced Uganda’s capacity to neutralise threats, secure its borders, and execute operations effectively.

The CDF described Russia’s military assistance as a clear demonstration of the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship.

Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, flanked by several senior UPDF officers, with the outgoing Russian Ambassador Vladlen Semivolos , on Tuesday at the Special Forces Command in Entebbe.

Gen Kainerugaba wished the ambassador success in his future assignments and reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to further strengthening military and diplomatic ties.

In his remarks, Semivolos reflected positively on his four years and five months in Uganda, noting that relations between the two countries had significantly strengthened during his tenure.

He revealed that discussions are underway to formalise cooperation through several Memoranda of Understanding covering sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and immigration.

Ambassador Semivolos also disclosed that Uganda and Russia are set to conclude a reciprocal visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports, which will form part of a broader cooperation framework expected to be signed soon.

The meeting ended with both sides pledging to deepen bilateral cooperation, with the CDF noting that regular high-level exchanges reflect the growing closeness between the two countries.

Senior UPDF officers, namely: Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, SFC Chief of Staff Brig Gen Paul Namawa, Joint Staff Logistics Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, and Marine Brigade Commander Brig Gen Micheal Nyarwa, attended the meeting.