South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ongoing international efforts to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
According to statements from both governments, President Putin expressed gratitude for South Africa’s involvement in peace initiatives, noting Pretoria’s role as part of a delegation of African leaders advocating for dialogue and negotiated settlement. President Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s full support for diplomatic solutions aimed at halting hostilities and addressing humanitarian concerns.
The two leaders also reviewed the state of bilateral relations, agreeing to deepen cooperation within their strategic partnership framework. Areas identified for expanded collaboration include trade, investment, energy, and multilateral coordination through forums such as BRICS, where South Africa and Russia are both members.
The conversation comes amid heightened global attention on mediation efforts, with African states seeking to play a more active role in conflict resolution beyond the continent.
