In a significant development aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has publicly called on President Vladimir Putin not to cancel his planned visit to South Africa. Mbalula believes that Putin’s visit could play a crucial role in hastening the peace process between the two nations. The ANC Secretary-General made this statement during an interview with Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh and reinforced his message through a tweet.
The peace initiative referred to by Mbalula was instigated by President Cyril Ramaphosa and other African leaders who undertook a diplomatic mission to Russia and Ukraine. Their goal was to mediate a ceasefire and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Mbalula expressed his belief that Putin’s visit to South Africa would “reinforce the initiative” put forth by African countries to bring about lasting peace.
Mbalula further emphasized that Putin’s visit had the potential to “fast-track” the peace process, expressing hope that the Russian president would attend the BRICS summit scheduled to take place in South Africa in August.
However, the prospect of Putin’s visit has sparked public debate, with concerns being raised about the potential for his arrest due to an outstanding warrant for war crimes issued by the International Criminal Court. In response, Mbalula defended the sovereignty of South Africa, asserting that he does not believe superpowers should interfere in the internal affairs of other nations. He also expressed his personal opinion that he does not consider Putin to be a war criminal.
While the possibility of Putin’s visit to South Africa in August remains uncertain, Mbalula’s statements indicate the South African government’s eagerness to have him attend, as they believe it could significantly contribute to the peace process in Ukraine. The outcome of these diplomatic efforts will be closely watched by the international community, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
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[WATCH]
If President Putin were to come to South Africa, it would reinforce the initiative that we seek to define in that 10-point plan to bring about peace between Russia and Ukraine. #MbalulaOnUnfiltered pic.twitter.com/KvQK1sDE5q
— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) June 21, 2023
[WATCH]
If President Putin were to come to South Africa, it would reinforce the initiative that we seek to define in that 10-point plan to bring about peace between Russia and Ukraine. #MbalulaOnUnfiltered pic.twitter.com/KvQK1sDE5q
— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) June 21, 2023