Minister Ronald Lamola Reaffirms South Africa’s Diplomatic Commitment in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

South Africa has reaffirmed its diplomatic commitment to fostering peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola emphasising the country’s active mediation efforts on the global stage.

This follows a week of significant diplomatic engagements by President Cyril Ramaphosa, including a telephonic discussion with US President Donald Trump, a separate call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and a historic visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Pretoria — the first by a Ukrainian head of state.

Speaking during an interview on Face the Nation, Lamola said the visit was a direct outcome of the Africa Peace Initiative, which previously saw Ramaphosa lead a delegation to both Ukraine and Russia. That visit introduced a 10-point peace proposal aimed at de-escalating the war and encouraging dialogue.

“He [Zelensky] says he’s ready to enter into negotiations with no conditions. It is a good step in the right direction,” Lamola said.

The minister also confirmed that President Putin had expressed willingness to engage diplomatically, a sentiment that aligns with the Africa Peace Initiative’s push for unconditional talks. Lamola added that Mcebisi Jonas, serving as a US Special Envoy, is currently in Moscow to continue building on diplomatic momentum.

While a reported Russian airstrike on Kyiv coincided with Zelensky’s visit to South Africa, Lamola emphasised that both leaders had reiterated their commitment to peaceful dialogue.

“They both emphasised the need for dialogue, for a peaceful engagement,” Lamola said.

Commenting on the Ramaphosa-Trump conversation, Lamola noted it was a long-anticipated interaction, highlighting growing bilateral interest between Pretoria and Washington. “It is a call that we have always wanted to see happening. Fortunately, it happened now, this week,” he said.

On questions surrounding South Africa’s representation in the US, Lamola explained that appointing a new ambassador would follow the deployment of a Special Envoy, who will be key in resetting bilateral ties.

“We believe that the Special Envoy will further add to this ongoing work to reset the bilateral relations of the two countries,” Lamola concluded.

South Africa’s ongoing efforts to play a balanced, proactive diplomatic role signal a deeper commitment to peacebuilding in global conflicts — while also positioning the country as a credible voice in international mediation efforts.

{Source: IOL}

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