Latin America in the focus of Ukrainian diplomacy: a meeting with Ambassador Ihor Tumasov

A meeting with Ambassador Ihor Tumasov, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Peru, gave participants of the Junior Diplomatic Academy a chance to see Latin America not as a distant region, but as an increasingly important area of Ukrainian diplomacy.

Students were especially engaged by the Ambassador’s personal story of entering diplomacy almost by accident, beginning his career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a second secretary. Stories like these helped make diplomacy feel more accessible—as a professional path that can begin in unexpected ways.

The conversation then turned to the region itself. The Ambassador asked participants how many countries make up Latin America and explained why the Caribbean is often considered separately. The discussion explored not only geography, but also differences in political systems, languages, and historical traditions. These insights helped participants better understand the region’s diversity and why diplomacy there requires a thoughtful and nuanced approach.

Special attention was given to visa-free agreements, economic cooperation, and the long-standing ties between Ukraine and Latin American countries. Participants learned that Ukraine had been exporting heavy industrial products to the region since Soviet times, while today countries continue to compete for economic influence and strategic partnerships across the continent.

The lecture, however, extended far beyond politics and economics. The discussion warmly highlighted the Ukrainian diaspora and prominent individuals of Ukrainian heritage who became part of Latin America’s history. Stories about scientists, cultural figures, and revolutionaries of Ukrainian origin showed how deeply interconnected countries can become across generations and continents.

The discussion also addressed more complex topics, including the region’s economic challenges, russia’s presence in Latin America, and efforts to hinder Ukrainian initiatives. At the same time, participants learned how Ukraine is steadily expanding its diplomatic presence in the region, creating new opportunities for cooperation and building long-term partnerships.

By the end of the meeting, Latin America no longer felt like a distant part of the world. Instead, it emerged as a region already connected to Ukraine through shared histories, people, and cultural ties—highlighting the importance of a new generation of diplomats ready to strengthen and continue these relationships.

Rita Kosyak, Head of the Project Office at the Kyiv Palace of Children and Youth, noted:

“We sincerely thank Ambassador Ihor Tumasov for this open and insightful meeting, which helped participants better understand diplomacy beyond the European context more familiar to us. It was especially valuable for students to see how knowledge of history, languages, culture, and international relations is applied in the real work of a diplomat. Meetings like this broaden perspectives and help young people navigate today’s international environment while reflecting on their own professional future.”