Ramaphosa and Putin Talk Peace in Ukraine as South Africa Balances Global Ties

Ramaphosa and Putin Connect Over Ukraine Amid Global Tensions

In a diplomatic moment that underscores South Africa’s balancing act on the world stage, President Cyril Ramaphosa held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week. The focus? Progress towards peace in Ukraine and strengthening ties between Pretoria and Moscow.

Putin reportedly reached out to update Ramaphosa on the ongoing peace efforts, a move welcomed by South Africa, which has positioned itself as a neutral broker amid one of the most divisive conflicts of recent times.

A Neutral Voice in a Polarised World

Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, said Putin “expressed his recognition and appreciation for South Africa’s involvement” in pushing for peace. Ramaphosa, in turn, reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at ending the war and fostering lasting calm between Russia and Ukraine.

This call came at a time when South Africa’s diplomatic tightrope walk is more visible than ever. The country holds the G20 presidency and faces the challenge of engaging multiple global powers with sometimes opposing interests.

Diverging Views Within South Africa

While Ramaphosa promotes dialogue, not all voices in the country align with this neutral stance. The MK Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma, has openly criticised Ukraine, placing blame on it for the conflict and accusing NATO countries of stirring tensions to weaken the BRICS alliance of which South Africa and Russia are members.

This internal debate reflects South Africa’s broader struggle to navigate its historical alliances and emerging economic partnerships while maintaining a responsible role in international peace efforts.

Zelensky’s Visit and Ramaphosa’s Ambitions

Earlier this year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a rare visit to South Africa, marking a significant diplomatic moment. Though his trip was cut short due to intensified Russian attacks in Kyiv, Zelensky’s engagement with Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s unique position.

Zelensky called on Pretoria for humanitarian support, noting South Africa’s G20 role as a platform for such efforts. Ramaphosa has also spoken with former US President Donald Trump, with both leaders agreeing on the urgent need to end the conflict.

South Africa’s Delicate Diplomatic Dance

As the war in Ukraine drags on, South Africa’s leadership must balance its ties with Russia and Western nations while advancing peace and protecting its own strategic interests. Ramaphosa’s conversation with Putin, along with previous talks with Zelensky and Trump, reflect a proactive approach, seeking dialogue, promoting diplomacy, and using South Africa’s unique role in global forums to push for peace.

In the end, South Africa’s voice may be one of many, but its commitment to dialogue and neutrality offers a glimmer of hope amid a fractured global order.

{Source: The Citizen}

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