Zelenskyy and Ramaphosa Discuss Global South Role in Ending Russia-Ukraine War

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a meeting between Kyiv and Moscow to help end the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the role of the Global South in sending signals to push Russia toward peace. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his readiness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in any format but noted Moscow's efforts to prolong the conflict. Zelensky highlighted joint diplomatic efforts, including productive meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, and stressed the need to stop the war initiated by Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the Ukraine conflict and other international crises with Ramaphosa, agreeing to meet again during the United Nations General Assembly. Both Zelensky and Ramaphosa discussed future cooperation with the African continent to ensure food security and foster dialogue. The European Commissioner for Defense also reaffirmed Ukraine's right to EU and NATO membership, rejecting the division of Europe into spheres of influence.