Zelensky and Ramaphosa Unite: A Strategic Meeting to Strengthen Alliances Against Russian Aggression

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky recently made a historic visit to South Africa. This visit is a big step forward in mending the relationship between Ukraine and South Africa, which wasn’t always smooth. It also highlights Ukraine’s effort to counter Russia’s growing influence in Africa.

During his trip, Zelensky faced a setback when Russia launched an airstrike on Kyiv. This forced him to cut his visit short, returning to Ukraine after meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. It’s been a while since Zelensky visited Africa, with his last brief stop being in Cape Verde while heading to Argentina in 2023.

South Africa has a complex stance on the Ukraine conflict. Many African nations, South Africa included, were reluctant to publicly condemn Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Steven Gruzd from the South African Institute of International Relations explains that Ukraine’s approach to Africa has changed in recent years, increasing its diplomatic presence from 10 to 20 embassies.

Ukraine is not alone on this front; countries like Russia, China, and Turkey are also vying for influence in Africa. This competition complicates matters for Zelensky, especially as Ukraine’s relationship with the United States has grown tense since former President Donald Trump’s administration, which has questioned Ukraine’s actions and legitimacy on the global stage.

Political analyst Prof. Siphamandla Zondi pointed out, “Ukraine needs every bit of legitimacy it can get internationally. Wars aren’t just won with guns, but also in the court of public opinion.” This context adds weight to Zelensky’s visit as he seeks to strengthen ties.

From Ramaphosa’s perspective, this meeting is crucial for South Africa as well. His government faces its own pressures from the U.S., especially following accusations that South Africa supplied arms to Russia. Although an inquiry found no evidence for these claims, tensions lingered. Ramaphosa’s role as a potential peacemaker was underscored when he previously led a delegation to both Kyiv and Moscow to discuss a resolution to the conflict.

Ramaphosa also mentioned that he spoke with Putin before Zelensky’s visit, emphasizing South Africa’s commitment to peace. This dialogue comes at a time when relations with the U.S. are strained, especially with Trump’s previous criticism of South Africa over its foreign policy decisions.

In recent discussions, the relationship between South Africa and the U.S. has been complicated. Trump proposed a 30% tariff on South African goods earlier this month, which he then paused for 90 days. Ramaphosa is hopeful that talks could help ease these tensions and strengthen the economic relationship.

Experts believe there’s potential for trade growth between Ukraine and South Africa. Prof. Zondi highlighted that even small trade volumes could significantly benefit South Africa, which is currently facing economic challenges like low growth and high unemployment. Strengthened ties may also help Ukraine extend its influence in Africa.

Importantly, both Russia and Ukraine are significant wheat suppliers to Africa, making it difficult for the continent to take sides. As analysts note, Africa needs both nations and cannot afford to choose between them. The evolving dynamics presented by Zelensky’s visit might signal a new chapter in Ukraine-Africa relations, opening avenues for growth without sidelining Russia.



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