Kremlin: South Africa’s Ramaphosa initiated call with Putin over Ukraine

MOSCOW, May 12 – In a recent phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to the “diplomatic track” for resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to a statement from the Kremlin.

Putin expressed support for Ramaphosa’s proposal to involve African leaders in the peace process for Ukraine, indicating a willingness to explore new avenues for resolving the 15-month-long conflict. South Africa has positioned itself as a neutral party in the dispute.

The conversation between the two leaders follows accusations by the United States that a Russian ship, under sanctions, had acquired weapons from a naval base near Cape Town last year. Dismissing these claims, South African officials defended their country’s neutral stance and initiated an inquiry into the allegation.

The phone call was initiated by the South African side, highlighting their interest in engaging with Russia on matters concerning Ukraine. In addition to discussing the conflict, Putin reiterated his offer to provide African nations with free Russian grain and fertilizers during the conversation.

As tensions persist in Ukraine, diplomatic efforts involving African leaders may present a new avenue for dialogue and potential resolution. The inquiry launched by South Africa into the alleged weapons incident will likely shed light on the matter, further influencing the dynamics of the conflict.