Zelenskiy Meets Ramaphosa in South Africa for Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is visiting South Africa for the first time to meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa, with the agenda centered on strengthening bilateral cooperation and seeking pathways to end Russia's war in Ukraine. The visit comes amid international pressure for peace progress and growing calls for South Africa to deepen economic ties with Ukraine, particularly in agriculture. Both nations see opportunities for mutually beneficial trade partnerships, with discussions expected to include key geopolitical issues and business prospects in sectors like agro-processing, infrastructure, and digitalization. South Africa, which maintains a neutral stance and strong relations with Russia, is leveraging this engagement as part of its broader African Peace Initiative aimed at mediating the conflict. The Ukrainian delegation, including ministers and business representatives, is actively exploring partnerships with South African entrepreneurs. Zelenskiy has emphasized the urgent need for a just peace, while Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting peaceful resolutions.