Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to visit South Africa on April 10, marking a significant diplomatic effort to end Russia's war on Ukraine amidst a rift with the US. This visit comes after Kyiv was excluded from recent US-Russia talks aimed at resolving the three-year conflict.

During his visit, Zelensky will engage in discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, providing both leaders an opportunity to explore potential solutions to the ongoing war. South Africa's stance on the war has been neutral, with the country refusing to condemn Russia's invasion and abstaining from UN resolutions on the matter.

However, President Ramaphosa has been engaging with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin to promote a peaceful resolution. South Africa's shift from the US-led coalition has positioned it as an alternative power, given its leadership in BRICS and the G20. Its growing ties with Russia have further strengthened its role as a key player, making it an important voice as Ukraine seeks new allies following its fallout with the US.

Dr. Oscar van Heerden, a political analyst at the University of Johannesburg, described the planned visit as a "brilliant" move for South Africa. Speaking with the BBC, he noted that the visit provides Kyiv with a platform to express its concerns amid US-Russia negotiations while also sending "a number of messages globally."

He added that President Cyril Ramaphosa is demonstrating South Africa's ability to influence global affairs, despite potential dismissal by US President Donald Trump. The visit is seen as a significant development in the ongoing conflict, as Ukraine seeks to find new allies and negotiate a peaceful resolution.

The rift between Ukraine and the US came to the forefront after Trump met with Zelensky at the White House on February 28, 2025. Initially expected to focus on economic cooperation, particularly a minerals deal, the meeting quickly turned tense. Trump reportedly pressured Zelensky to "make a deal" with Russia or risk losing US support, signaling a shift in America's stance on the Ukraine-Russia war.

Following this fallout, Ramaphosa extended an invitation to Zelensky for a meeting in Johannesburg. In a phone call, both leaders agreed on the urgent need for an inclusive peace process. Ramaphosa, in a post on X, welcomed the engagement and expressed his anticipation of Zelensky's state visit.

In response, Zelensky thanked South Africa for its support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that he hoped for a "just and lasting peace" this year. The upcoming visit is seen as a crucial step towards achieving this goal, as Ukraine and South Africa work together to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

The implications of this visit are far-reaching, as it marks a significant shift in Ukraine's diplomatic efforts. As the country seeks to find new allies and negotiate a peaceful resolution, the role of South Africa as a peacemaker cannot be overstated. The visit is a testament to the growing influence of South Africa on the global stage, and its ability to shape international relations.

In the broader context, the visit highlights the complexities of international relations and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts. As the world watches Ukraine and South Africa work towards a peaceful resolution, the implications of this visit will be felt far beyond the borders of these two countries.