Zelensky makes landmark visit to South Africa

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a historic visit to South Africa, signalling a major improvement in ties between the two nations.

The visit is Zelensky’s first to Africa since assuming office in 2019, excluding a brief 2023 stopover in Cape Verde.

It marks a diplomatic milestone in Ukraine’s strategy to broaden its international alliances and reduce Russia’s influence on the continent.

During his visit to Pretoria, Zelensky met with President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss peace efforts and bilateral cooperation.

However, the trip was cut short following a Russian air strike on Kyiv. “I am cancelling part of the programme for this visit and will return to Ukraine immediately after the meeting with the President of South Africa,” Zelensky announced on social media.

The visit comes at a time when Ukraine is seeking to strengthen relations with African nations. This shift in foreign policy became apparent after several African countries, including South Africa, refused to denounce Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

In response, Ukraine doubled the number of its embassies on the continent from 10 to 20 over the past three years.

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Analysts say South Africa’s strategic position and advanced infrastructure make it a key gateway for Ukraine’s engagement with Africa.

The meeting between both leaders also focused on economic cooperation, with Ramaphosa looking to explore trade opportunities as South Africa battles low growth and high unemployment.

Ramaphosa emphasised that their discussions aimed to support global peace efforts. Ahead of Zelensky’s arrival, he had a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which both leaders reaffirmed bilateral ties and expressed commitment to peaceful resolution of the ongoing war.

South Africa’s neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict has faced scrutiny from successive US administrations.

Under President Trump, who resumed office in January, relations have further deteriorated due to tensions over South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ and allegations concerning treatment of the Afrikaner minority—claims denied by Pretoria.

Despite geopolitical challenges, Ramaphosa is maintaining his role in conflict mediation, having previously led a delegation to Moscow and Kyiv in 2023. Both leaders have now reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and deeper bilateral ties.

BBC News