The African peace efforts on Russian war in Ukraine
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in South Africa on April 24, 2025, marking the first visit by a Ukrainian leader to African coun tries in the last ten years.
When a leader of a country that has been fighting for its freedom for more than three years comes to Africa, it is a clear recognition of the continent’s importance and its role in peace efforts.
It has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a full ceasefire and halt to strikes, as proposed by the United States. However, Russia has continued to kill Ukrainian civilians and evade tough pressure and accountability for its actions. As a result, Russian strikes are still ongoing.
On the night of April 23, nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic ones, and about 150 attack drones were launched at Ukraine.
Unfortunately, there has been significant destruction. Rescue operations are ongoing, and rubble from residential buildings is still being cleared.
The attack left more than 80 people injured across Ukraine, with every victim receiving the necessary medical assistance.
Regrettably, at least eight people were killed in Kyiv.
During his African trip, President Zelenskyy will brief South African President Cyril Ramaphosa—who currently holds the G20 Presidency—on the current situation and Ukraine’s urgent need to intensify global diplomatic efforts.
Zelenskyy will emphasize that the strikes must stop immediately and unconditionally.
Ukraine will also seek support on humanitarian matters, including the return of prisoners of war and Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
Due to the most recent war crime committed by Russia and the high number of casualties, Zelenskyy will return to Ukraine immediately after meeting with President Ramaphosa.
“This is the reality of this war. We’ve seen many examples of talks with the aggressor only leading to the opposite effect—continued attacks, doubled in scale. This is why Ukraine has no choice but to protect its citizens,” Zelenskyy noted.
Despite everything, some political parties in South Africa have protested against the visit and called the protection of Ukraine’s sovereignty “disputable.”
While the right to protest must be respected, one must ask: how can Africa become a center of gravity for global diplomacy if it does not stand with the victims of aggression?
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