Ukraine-Russia conflict: 'Only path to peace is through diplomacy' - Ramaphosa

PRETORIA - President Cyril Ramaphosa has told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky that the only way to resolve the conflict with Russia is through diplomacy.

Zelensky is in Pretoria on a working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral bonds with South Africa.

On Thursday, Zelensky and Ramaphosa held a joint media briefing at the union buildings where Ukraine’s conflict with Russia took centre stage.

When Zelensky landed in South Africa, he was greeted with the news that Russia had bombed Ukraine’s capital city of Kiev, resulting in the deaths of eight people and 80 others injured.

It has been over three years since Russia invaded Ukraine with the conflict between the two countries showing no end in sight.

Ramaphosa says the South African government is concerned about the lives lost in the conflict.

“South Africa believes that the only path to peace is through diplomacy. Inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the principles of the un charter. This includes the principle that all member states should settle their international disputes through peaceful means."

Zelensky says Ukraine remains open to talks of an unconditional ceasefire.

ZELENSKY CUTS VISIT TO SA SHORT

At the same time, Zelensky apologised for cutting his South African visit short following a bombing in Kiev.

He will be flying back to Ukraine this evening. 

Speaking through a translator at a media briefing in the union buildings, Zelensky said his people needed him back home.

“While I am talking here, the recovery works continue and because of that I decided to shorten my visit to your beautiful country, but I do leave my Minister of Exterior to express our shared respect and for the meetings that we have been planned.”