South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended an invitation to Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky for a state visit, although no date has been specified. This comes amid ongoing discussions to secure peace in Ukraine, highlighting South Africa’s role in these diplomatic efforts despite its historical ties with Russia and recent tensions with the United States.
South Africa will host Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky for a state visit, as confirmed by President Cyril Ramaphosa on X, although a specific date has not been provided. This invitation follows a week when Kyiv was excluded from US-Russia discussions aimed at resolving the protracted conflict in Ukraine. During a phone conversation, Ramaphosa and Zelensky emphasized the necessity for an inclusive peace process, a view that Zelensky supported by stating, “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.”
South Africa has faced accusations of having closer ties with Russia but has expressed a desire to mediate in the ongoing conflict. Earlier this year, Ramaphosa led a diplomatic mission comprising seven African nations to meet with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This context underscores the challenges South Africa faces as it navigates its historical connections to Russia while seeking to play a constructive role in peace efforts.
In a message posted on his X account, Ramaphosa stated, “I welcome the constructive engagement I had with President [Zelensky] and I look forward to hosting him in South Africa soon for a state visit.” Zelensky responded with gratitude for South Africa’s support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, expressing a shared hope for achieving lasting peace in the current year.
Despite ongoing communication since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022, a state visit by Zelensky had not been previously arranged. In December, Zelensky had expressed his interest in visiting South Africa during an interaction with African journalists, emphasizing the need for coordination with Ramaphosa due to the latter’s busy schedule.
The invitation coincides with a growing strain in Ukraine’s relationship with the United States, particularly following remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who labeled Zelensky a “dictator”. Additionally, South Africa’s relations with the US have faced challenges, particularly after aid was cut due to a contentious land expropriation law. President Ramaphosa has asserted that South Africa “will not be bullied.”
In summary, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has invited President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine for a state visit, highlighting the importance of an inclusive peace process amid the ongoing conflict. This visit follows a context of complex diplomatic relations, as South Africa strives to mediate amidst its historical ties to Russia and the recent strains in its relationship with the United States. As both leaders hope to address core issues surrounding Ukraine’s sovereignty, this state visit may play a significant role in the broader peace efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
