South African President Ramaphosa Engages European Leaders on Russia-Ukraine Peace Initiatives

Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has been in discussions with European leaders about peace initiatives concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

“Today’s series of calls follows meetings organized by President Donald Trump involving President Vladimir Putin, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and several other European leaders,” the South African Presidency stated on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

President Ramaphosa spoke with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine, President Emmanuel Macron of France, and President Alexandar Stubb of Finland.

“Further conversations with additional European leaders are expected in the coming days and weeks,” the Presidency indicated.

“President Ramaphosa also appreciated the update he received last week from President Vladimir Putin regarding his discussions with President Trump.

“During these conversations, European leaders openly expressed their opinions, acknowledged South Africa’s role in mediating between both sides in the conflict, and reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts to resolve the war between Russia and Ukraine.

President Ramaphosa highlighted the necessity of initiating bilateral and trilateral meetings among the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and the United States as crucial for demonstrating a firm commitment to ending the war.”

Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the South African President, added: “President Ramaphosa encourages all parties to seize this opportunity and sustain the momentum towards peace between Russia and Ukraine.”