Zelenskyy's South Africa visit cut short amid ongoing military crisis in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in South Africa for an official visit, marking the first of its kind.

Welcomed by Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola, Zelenskyy’s visit is seen as a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations, with a particular focus on economic cooperation and conflict resolution, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

However, the visit has been shortened, with several planned events now cancelled. Thus, the revised schedule is due to the ongoing military developments in Kyiv, necessitating an accelerated timetable. As a result, Zelenskyy is expected to depart South Africa immediately after he meets with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

During his visit, President Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The Presidency noted that the visit provides both countries with an opportunity to deepen cooperation and explore areas of mutual interest, especially regarding efforts to bring lasting peace to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

In a statement, Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of South Africa’s involvement in international efforts to address the conflict, particularly in facilitating the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. He also underscored the significance of cultural and educational ties between the two nations, which he hopes will be further developed during his visit.

Note that the visit, however, comes at a time of heightened tensions, as US President Donald Trump recently criticised Zelenskyy over remarks that Ukraine would not recognise Russia’s control over Crimea, a territory illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Trump described Zelenskyy’s stance as “inflammatory,” a sentiment that has complicated the diplomatic landscape and the prospects for peace in the region.

Despite the diplomatic significance of Zelenskyy’s visit, it has not been without controversy. The South African Communist Party (SACP) has strongly condemned the visit, calling for protests in Soweto and outside the Ukrainian Embassy in Pretoria. The SACP criticised Zelenskyy’s government for its alleged ties to NATO and accused Ukraine of undermining democratic values, citing its ban on opposition parties and treatment of workers. They also questioned South Africa’s alignment with Ukraine, urging the country to adhere to principles of non-alignment, anti-colonialism, and global justice.

The protests are expected to take place today, with the SACP voicing concerns over Ukraine’s role in fuelling global military tensions. In light of the ongoing protests and the sensitive nature of Zelenskyy’s visit, the schedule has been revised and several events cancelled. Zelenskyy is now expected to leave South Africa immediately after his meeting with President Ramaphosa.

By Aghakazim Guliyev