South African President Arrives in Saint Petersburg as African Delegation Pursues Kyiv-Moscow Talks
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa landed in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on Saturday, joining an African delegation that aims to facilitate negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow. Despite mounting doubts about the prospects of a fruitful outcome, African leaders are determined to make the continent’s concerns heard, particularly given the economic challenges inflicted by the ongoing conflict.
President Ramaphosa’s visit follows productive discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to the South African presidency. The delegation’s main objective is to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking a path to peace after the 16-month-long conflict, which has caused devastating economic repercussions, loss of life, and global instability.
The mission includes four presidents: Ramaphosa, Senegal’s Macky Sall, Zambia’s Hakainde Hichilema, and Comoros’ Azali Assoumani, who also currently holds the presidency of the African Union. However, Uganda, Egypt, and Congo-Brazzaville’s leaders withdrew from the visit at the last moment, opting to send representatives in their place.
Analysts caution that the pursuit of peace faces increasing challenges, as both Kyiv and Moscow remain convinced of their battlefield advantages. Ramaphosa called for de-escalation on both sides during a press conference in Kyiv, advocating for peace through negotiations.
However, Zelensky rejected the possibility of talks while the occupying force remains on Ukrainian land, emphasizing that engaging in negotiations would only prolong pain and suffering.
