Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s historic visit to South Africa ignites international interest, prompting diplomatic calls from Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
In a powerful moment for international diplomacy, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a landmark visit to South Africa on 24 April 2025, meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The visit, brief but impactful, made global headlines as it attracted direct involvement from former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who both contacted Ramaphosa amid the geopolitical shake-up.
A Historic First: Ukraine’s Head of State Visits SA
This was the first visit by a Ukrainian head of state to South Africa, and it came at a time when Pretoria’s relationship with the United States is strained due to controversial political accusations and international court cases. Despite these tensions, Zelensky’s presence seemed to elevate South Africa’s diplomatic profile, showcasing the country’s role as a neutral platform for conflict resolution.
Trump and Putin Weigh In
Both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin reached out to President Ramaphosa to weigh in on the significance of the meeting.
Trump reportedly discussed the US peace plan for Ukraine, which Zelensky had recently rejected due to its demand that Ukraine abandon both Crimea and its ambition to join NATO. Trump’s plan drew criticism for appearing to force territorial and political concessions before peace talks could even begin.
Putin, meanwhile, called Ramaphosa ahead of Zelensky’s arrival, emphasising Russia’s core security concerns and reiterating the need for Ukraine to forgo NATO membership. These calls highlighted the strategic importance of South Africa’s diplomatic voice in global peace efforts.
Ramaphosa Supports Ceasefire
A major takeaway from the joint press conference was Ramaphosa’s endorsement of an unconditional ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war — a rare stance among BRICS nations and one that sets South Africa apart from both Russian and American proposals.
Ramaphosa cited South Africa’s own peace journey in the 1990s as an example of how a ceasefire can open doors to meaningful dialogue.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Beyond the headlines, Zelensky and Ramaphosa forged stronger ties between Ukraine and South Africa. Topics included:
- Agricultural trade: Ukraine is interested in South African citrus, beef, and mutton, and may act as a European hub for SA meat exports.
- Fertiliser access: With fertiliser prices skyrocketing globally, Ukraine could supply much-needed relief to SA farmers.
- Grain imports: South Africa sees Ukraine as a key grain supplier.
- Technology transfer: Talks are underway on Ukraine’s advanced drone technology, which could assist SA with anti-poaching and surveillance.
- Energy cooperation: Ukraine offered support in developing nuclear energy and infrastructure projects.
Zelensky Cuts Visit Short After Russian Missile Strikes
In a dramatic turn of events, Zelensky was forced to cut his visit short following a massive Russian missile attack on Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine. The assault left multiple people injured and several dead, underlining the ongoing urgency of the conflict.
The remaining diplomatic discussions were handled by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who praised the week’s events as “no coincidence in diplomacy,” emphasizing South Africa’s growing relevance on the global stage.
South Africa’s Role in Child Rescue Efforts
Zelensky also thanked South Africa for participating in global efforts to recover abducted Ukrainian children, many of whom were forcibly relocated to Russia during the invasion. South Africa received a list of about 400 children from Ukraine and will assist in efforts to locate and return them.
A Platform for Peace?
DA leader John Steenhuisen, who attended the meeting in his role as Agriculture Minister, said this visit is an opportunity for South Africa to use its BRICS membership and global south influence to push for peace in Ukraine.
“The Western powers are often divided on this issue,” Steenhuisen said. “South Africa can act as a neutral, respected interlocutor to help bridge that gap.”
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