Cyril Ramaphosa Meets Zelensky, Advocates for Ukraine Ceasefire

During a landmark meeting in Pretoria, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa supported Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s call for an unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The discussion highlighted collaborative efforts for peace, amidst South Africa’s balanced relations with both Ukraine and Russia. Zelensky sought South Africa’s aid in returning kidnapped Ukrainian children, and both leaders emphasized the need for united international pressure on Russia.

In a significant diplomatic move, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during an official visit to Pretoria. The meeting took place on April 24, 2024, and Ramaphosa expressed his support for Ukraine’s instinct towards an unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ramaphosa noted that this would pave the way for necessary peace talks in hopes of settling the war that has lingered for over three years.

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa emphasized that Zelensky’s gesture signals strong confidence. After the discussions, he stated, “It is a confidence-building measure that should be a key ingredient in a negotiation process.” This support came shortly after Ramaphosa had a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump agreeing that an urgent end to the conflict is crucial to prevent further loss of life.

Despite endorsing peace efforts and meeting with Zelensky, Ramaphosa’s administration has continued to uphold historical ties with Russia, a former ally during South Africa’s apartheid struggle. Ramaphosa indicated earlier discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming a commitment to collaborate on finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing crisis.

During the visit, Zelensky also remarked on South Africa’s backing, stating it could exert pressure on Russia to pursue a full ceasefire. He called for global unity in these efforts, especially noting the role of the G20 nations during South Africa’s presidency. Notably, Zelensky delivered a heart-wrenching list of 400 Ukrainian children believed to be detained in Russia, requesting South Africa’s assistance in facilitating their return.

Zelensky’s trip was notably brief; he left South Africa to return to Kyiv following a devastating early morning attack in his capital, which resulted in multiple casualties. The invitation to Zelensky represented a noteworthy shift in South Africa’s previously neutral stance on the conflict, especially since it joined the UN in condemning Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Lastly, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in South Africa’s potential role in mediating peace discussions, reflecting on the peaceful negotiations that ended apartheid. “The negotiations that brought an end to the nightmare of apartheid were held on a no-precondition basis,” he articulated, calling on both Moscow and Kyiv to adopt a similar approach in their discussions. He also acknowledged Zelensky’s efforts to strengthen ties with the African continent, especially amid Russia’s growing influence in Africa, both politically and militarily.

This meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Volodymyr Zelensky marks a potentially pivotal moment in South Africa’s involvement in international diplomacy regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. With Ramaphosa’s support for a ceasefire and a more active role proposed in peace negotiations, this could signal a shift in Pretoria’s foreign policy. Both leaders recognize the necessity of dialogue, setting the stage for future efforts towards peace in the region.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com