A notable shift in South Africa’s diplomatic posture has been underscored by the official visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Pretoria on Thursday April 24. For the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began more than three years ago, South Africa has taken steps to clarify its stance by hosting the Ukrainian leader and supporting a United Nations General Assembly resolution critical of Russia.
Previously accused of ambiguity and neutrality in the face of global condemnation of Russia’s actions, Pretoria’s decision to welcome Zelensky has been interpreted by analysts as a recalibration of its foreign policy.
The invitation to President Zelensky was extended by President Cyril Ramaphosa in February, following increased criticism from Western allies over South Africa’s non-aligned position. That same month, South Africa supported a UN resolution affirming Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, a departure from its earlier reluctance to explicitly condemn the Russian invasion. Pretoria’s historical ties with Moscow, born from solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle, have long complicated its diplomatic balancing act. However, shifting global dynamics and diminished US engagement under former President Donald Trump have prompted South Africa to deepen cooperation with European partners, who have welcomed Pretoria’s evolving stance.
While the South African government has maintained that engagement with all parties remains its guiding principle, Zelensky’s visit represents a broader Ukrainian diplomatic push across Africa. The Ukrainian leader is reportedly seeking an invitation to the upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg, part of an effort to expand Kyiv’s presence on the continent. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s ambassador has called for South Africa to issue a full condemnation of Russia’s actions, underscoring the need for unequivocal support for international law and national sovereignty. Despite its renewed outreach to Europe and Ukraine, Pretoria has simultaneously reaffirmed its close ties with Moscow, describing Russia as a “precious friend” in a recent government statement.