…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa returned from talks in Kyiv and Saint Petersburg, where he participated in an African mission aimed at brokering peace in Ukraine.
Ramaphosa described the mission as “historic,” marking the first time African leaders have engaged in a peace initiative outside the continent.
The high-profile delegation met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday before heading to Russia to hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday.
No Immediate Results, but Voice of the Continent Heard
Despite the talks, no immediate breakthroughs were achieved.
However, Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the mission, which brought the voice of a continent that has suffered from the repercussions of the Ukraine conflict.
The rising grain prices, in particular, have had a detrimental impact.
The African delegation put forward a 10-point proposal, including de-escalation, recognition of countries’ sovereignty, unimpeded grain exports through the Black Sea, and repatriation of prisoners of war and children to their home countries.
Challenges and Positive Reception
The principles outlined in the proposal were deemed “very difficult to implement” by the Kremlin, while President Zelensky rejected talks with Moscow as long as Russian troops occupied Ukrainian territories.
However, Ramaphosa highlighted that one of the key achievements of the mission was the positive reception it received from both sides.
This reception is seen as encouraging and provides optimism that the proposed ideas will be given due consideration.
Both President Zelensky and President Putin have agreed to further engagements.
The Perilous Path to Peace
Analysts have noted that efforts to secure peace in Ukraine appear increasingly perilous, with both Kyiv and Moscow convinced of their ability to prevail through military means.
Ukraine recently launched a long-awaited counteroffensive, further complicating the situation.
Ramaphosa expressed hope that the ongoing process would lay the foundation for de-escalation and negotiations.
African Diplomatic Team and Conclusion
The African diplomatic team included the presidents of South Africa, Senegal, Comoros, and Zambia, as well as high-ranking officials from Uganda, Egypt, and Congo-Brazzaville.
Ramaphosa concluded by expressing his aspiration for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, aiming for a de-escalation and negotiation process to move forward successfully.
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