Natalie Nyathi
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is ongoing, and many countries are trying to find a way to bring about peace. Recent events show a complicated situation, with both diplomatic talks and military actions happening.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is actively involved in discussions to address the conflict. On August 23, 2025, (yesterday )he talked with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. These talks followed meetings hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump with President Vladimir Putin, President Zelenskyy, and other European leaders. Vincent Magwenya, a spokesperson for the presidency, said that European leaders appreciate South Africa’s role in engaging both sides and support efforts to end the war. Ramaphosa has also stressed the need for meetings between the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and the United States to show a commitment to ending the conflict.
South Africa has stayed neutral in this conflict. Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola stated that the country is in a good position to help mediate due to its history of resolving issues during apartheid and conflicts in Africa. However, some experts are unsure about how much impact South Africa can have on the peace process.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on countries in the Global South to help push Russia to agree to end the war. After speaking with Ramaphosa, he emphasized the need to stop the violence and destruction and expressed his willingness to meet with Putin. He urged the Global South to send strong messages to encourage Russia to pursue peace, expressing frustration with Russia’s delays.
U.S. President Donald Trump has been involved in trying to resolve the conflict, including a summit with Putin and meetings with Zelenskyy and European leaders. Recently, Trump expressed frustration about the lack of progress and rising casualties. He mentioned that he would make an important decision about the conflict in two weeks, which could involve sanctions against Russia or doing nothing.
Despite efforts for peace, little progress has been made. Russia continues to resist proposals to stop attacks or accept anything less than its goals in the war. Some analysts believe that the U.S. may have misunderstood Putin’s intentions.
On the ground, fighting continues, with Russia claiming to have taken villages in the Donetsk region of Ukraine. The Russian defense ministry announced the capture of Sredneye and Kleban-Byk, which moves them closer to Kostiantynivka, an important town. However, Ukrainian officials reported that their forces recaptured the village of Zeleny Gai and halted the Russian advance.
As diplomatic efforts continue, significant challenges remain in achieving lasting peace. Russia has not reduced its ambitions, and there seems to be little pressure from the U.S. to change that. Some experts believe that issues around territory and security are secondary concerns, making the war difficult to resolve.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, expressed doubt about Trump’s peace efforts, suggesting they may have given Putin a propaganda victory. She pointed out that Russia has not made any meaningful concessions and is not genuinely seeking peace.
As the conflict continues, the international community must find ways to bridge the gap between the opposing sides and create conditions for real peace.