South Africa has invited Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky for a state visit, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. This invitation comes amid strained relations with the US and follows discussions emphasizing the need for a peace process in Ukraine. Both leaders have maintained dialogue since the invasion, and Zelensky previously showed interest in visiting South Africa. The visit symbolizes South Africa’s diplomatic engagement amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.
South Africa has extended an invitation to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine for a state visit, as confirmed by President Cyril Ramaphosa via his social media account, although no specific date has been provided. This announcement follows a week during which Kyiv was notably absent from US-Russia discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing three-year conflict in Ukraine.
In a telephone discussion, President Ramaphosa and President Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for an inclusive peace process. Zelensky reiterated this sentiment by stating, “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” South Africa has faced criticism for its perceived close ties with Moscow while attempting to mediate an end to the conflict.
Earlier in 2023, President Ramaphosa led a delegation comprising seven African nations, including Egypt, Senegal, Zambia, and Uganda, for discussions that involved both President Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. South Africa’s historic connections with Russia are underscored by their membership in the Brics bloc, which also includes Brazil, India, and China.
President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the constructive dialogue with President Zelensky and looks forward to hosting him in South Africa soon. Zelensky acknowledged Ramaphosa’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during their conversation, expressing hope for achieving a just and lasting peace within the year.
Despite maintaining regular communication since Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the scheduled visit had not materialized until now. President Zelensky had previously expressed his willingness to travel to South Africa and urged local media to request the invitation from Mr. Ramaphosa, noting the latter’s busy schedule.
As Ukraine’s interactions with global leaders continue to evolve, tensions with the United States have heightened, particularly following accusations from former President Donald Trump, who labeled Zelensky a “dictator” and criticized his administration’s performance. This invitation from South Africa comes simultaneously with increasingly fraught relations with the US, which has cut off aid amidst land reform controversies, with Ramaphosa asserting that South Africa “will not be bullied.”
In summary, South Africa’s invitation to President Zelensky marks an important diplomatic move amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and shifting international relations. The discussions surrounding peace processes highlight South Africa’s proactive role in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. As geopolitical tensions rise, particularly with the US, this visit could signify a strengthening of South Africa’s diplomatic influence in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
