Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to embark on a state visit to South Africa on 10 April, as confirmed by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office. The visit is part of the ongoing efforts by President Ramaphosa to engage with both President Putin of Russia and President Zelenskyy of Ukraine in the hopes of facilitating a peaceful resolution to the conflict between the two nations.
The invitation for Zelenskyy to visit South Africa was extended by Ramaphosa back in mid-January, and the date confirmation comes as European leaders convene in Brussels to discuss ways to support Ukraine following the suspension of vital military aid by the US. This decision was made after a tense meeting between US President Donald Trump and Zelenskyy at the White House, where Trump pushed for a quick peace deal with Russia, while Zelenskyy emphasized the need for security guarantees before agreeing to a ceasefire.
In the midst of these developments, South Africa has been vocal about the necessity of inclusive negotiations to end the conflict that began when Russian tanks entered Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Ramaphosa’s office has emphasized the importance of involving all parties in peace talks, stating that lasting peace can only be achieved when all stakeholders are equally engaged in the process.
While the US has initiated talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, excluding Ukraine from the discussions, South Africa remains committed to facilitating negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv if needed. However, the country has made it clear that it will not impose its own terms on the peace process.
Trump’s recent claims that Ukraine initiated the war and suggestions that it may have to concede territory to Russia have further complicated the situation. The decision to suspend aid to Ukraine appears to be part of a larger shift in US foreign policy towards rebuilding ties with Moscow.
As Zelenskyy prepares to visit South Africa, the focus remains on finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Ramaphosa’s office stands ready to support inclusive negotiations that involve all parties and lead to a sustainable peace agreement.
