Ramaphosa Backs Ukraine Ceasefire in Diplomatic Visit with Zelensky

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, supporting an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine-Russia conflict. The talks included discussions with US President Donald Trump about the necessity of ending the war. Zelensky’s focus during the visit included seeking South Africa’s assistance in securing the return of Ukrainian children held in Russia.

In a significant diplomatic move, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Pretoria, where they discussed the urgent need for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting marked Zelensky’s first official visit to South Africa and came as Ramaphosa reinforced his country’s commitment to supporting peace negotiations. “It is a good signal from President Zelensky that Ukraine is agreeable to an unconditional ceasefire,” Ramaphosa stated to the press following their talks.

The South African leader emphasized this ceasefire as a critical step toward creating a conducive environment for peace talks. However, despite this new engagement, Ramaphosa is not abandoning South Africa’s historical relationship with Russia, a country that has remained a crucial ally since the post-apartheid era. He noted that he engaged in prior discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing a commitment from both leaders to work towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Earlier, Ramaphosa spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, agreeing on the necessity to end the war swiftly to prevent further casualties. Their conversation also touched upon the strained relations between the United States and South Africa, which have deteriorated recently, leading to aid cuts and the expulsion of Pretoria’s ambassador. Ramaphosa asserted that his nation is prepared to take an active role in fostering an inclusive multilateral approach to peace in Ukraine.

Zelensky, during the visit, communicated his optimism regarding South Africa’s support, stating, “I believe South Africa’s backing will help stop Russia and force Putin to support… a complete unconditional ceasefire.” He highlighted the importance of united global efforts to exert pressure on Russia. Zelensky also delivered a list containing the names of 400 Ukrainian children reportedly held in Russia, seeking Africa’s aid in securing their return.

Hours after his arrival in South Africa, Zelensky announced he would shorten his visit due to a devastating missile strike in Kyiv that resulted in several fatalities. This shift in diplomatic strategy comes after South Africa’s recent move in February to support a UN resolution that condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Ramaphosa expressed hope that inclusive negotiations could closely mirror the no-precondition talks that ended apartheid.

As South Africa takes a more engaged stance, the country aims not only to mediate in the Ukraine conflict but also to strengthen ties with Ukraine in sectors such as energy security and agriculture. The broader context involves Russia enhancing its influence across Africa, which complicates the dynamics as South Africa seeks to mediate peacefully in this highly polarized situation.

The meeting between Presidents Ramaphosa and Zelensky signifies a pivotal moment in South Africa’s foreign relations as it expresses readiness to support peace in Ukraine while maintaining ties with Russia. Ramaphosa’s push for a ceasefire highlights growing diplomatic engagement, particularly as global powers attempt to influence the outcome of the protracted conflict. The collaboration between South Africa and Ukraine could potentially foster deeper ties beyond the immediate crisis, underscoring the complexities of international diplomacy in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com