South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has held back-to-back conversations with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky and Russia’s Vladimir Putin over ongoing peace efforts. On Friday, Ramaphosa spoke to Zelensky, a day after receiving a call from Putin. Both discussions focused on possible paths to end the war.
The South African presidency said Zelensky briefed Ramaphosa on peace negotiations and voiced appreciation for Pretoria’s “continued support in finding a peaceful resolution.” Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to securing a lasting peace with Russia, describing diplomacy as the only sustainable route out of the conflict.
Ramaphosa told journalists that South Africa’s role in global mediation was “recognised,” noting the country’s history of fostering dialogue in turbulent times. The government has faced criticism at home and abroad for refusing to condemn Russia’s invasion outright, instead insisting on an unaligned stance.
In April, Pretoria hosted Zelensky for talks, underscoring its willingness to engage both sides despite the political pressures surrounding the war. On Thursday night, Ramaphosa revealed that Putin had called at his own request to brief him on Russia’s perspective of the peace process.
Putin’s outreach extended beyond South Africa, as he also held talks on Friday with the leaders of China and India. Analysts see these diplomatic moves as part of Moscow’s effort to secure backing from key allies ahead of a potential summit with Donald Trump.
