South Africa’s President Ramaphosa Meets Zelensky, Advocates for Ukraine Ceasefire
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressing strong support for an unconditional ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ramaphosa’s discussions also involved U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasizing an urgent need for peace. This meeting marks a shift in South Africa’s traditionally non-aligned stance, as the country seeks to mediate relations between Russia and Ukraine amidst growing geopolitical complexities.
In a significant diplomatic moment, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Pretoria on April 24, 2024. Ramaphosa praised Zelensky for his willingness to consider an unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasizing that it could pave the way for essential peace talks. This visit aligns South Africa with a push for a resolution to a war that has persisted for over three years.
Hours prior to their meeting, Ramaphosa had a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, where both leaders expressed urgency in bringing an end to the war. The South African president conveyed his commitment to fostering a peaceful resolution and noted that this ceasefire could build confidence for negotiations. In his statement, he remarked, “It is a good signal from President Zelensky that Ukraine is agreeable to an unconditional ceasefire.”
Despite this increasing engagement with Ukraine, Ramaphosa has a long-standing relationship with Russia, maintaining ties due to its historical role in supporting the anti-apartheid movement. Earlier in the week, he had communicated with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming their commitment to collaboration for peace. Ramaphosa stated, “We both committed to work together towards a peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.”
As the meeting with Zelensky unfolded, Ramaphosa mentioned South Africa’s readiness to be an inclusive mediator in the quest for peace. “We call upon all parties, both Russia and Ukraine, to ensure that there is a comprehensive ceasefire,” he urged. He also highlighted that following their discussions, he would soon engage further with Trump on matters affecting U.S.-South Africa relations amidst recent tensions.
Zelensky expressed optimism regarding South Africa’s support, stating it could pressure Russia to agree to a ceasefire. He called for unity among nations to compel Russia’s compliance. Moreover, the Ukrainian leader emphasized South Africa’s influential role as host of the G20 summit later this year, saying, “We are very much counting on it.” Zelensky also presented Ramaphosa with a list of 400 Ukrainian children reportedly held in Russia, seeking assistance for their return.
The visit represents a notable shift in South Africa’s position regarding the conflict. Ramaphosa’s invitation to Zelensky marks the country’s evolving stance from a historically non-aligned position. This change was reflected earlier when South Africa supported a UN General Assembly resolution condemning the Russian invasion for the first time. Ramaphosa underscored the significance of negotiations without preconditions, drawing parallels with South Africa’s own transition from apartheid to democracy.
The South African leader acknowledged Zelensky’s efforts to strengthen ties with African nations, altering dynamics in the region where Russia has been increasing its influence. This meeting could mark a pivotal moment in South Africa’s diplomatic engagement in the conflict, as both leaders seek a path toward peace amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Volodymyr Zelensky highlights a critical moment for South Africa’s foreign policy regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ramaphosa’s call for an unconditional ceasefire reflects a shift from neutrality to active engagement, reinforcing South Africa’s role as a potential mediator. As both leaders advocate for peace talks, the international community watches closely for potential developments in this ongoing war and South Africa’s emerging diplomatic strategy.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
