In a gesture that underscores the enduring diplomatic relations between Russia and South Africa, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Cyril Ramaphosa on his re-election as South African president. This congratulatory message comes amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine over two years ago.
According to a statement on the Kremlin website, Putin extended his congratulations via a telephone call , expressing hope for the continued strengthening of the partnership between Russia and South Africa. "Hope was expressed for continued joint work on further strengthening of the partnership between Russia and South Africa in all its aspects," the statement read.
Ramaphosa’s re-election by parliament on Friday followed a historic shift in South African politics. For the first time in 30 years, the African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party, failed to secure a majority in last month’s elections. This political development led to the formation of a coalition government comprising five parties, a significant change from the ANC’s longstanding dominance.
The relationship between Russia and South Africa is rooted in historical ties that date back to the Soviet era. Moscow was a key supporter of liberation movements across Africa, including the ANC’s struggle against apartheid. These historical bonds have translated into a contemporary diplomatic relationship that remains resilient despite global pressures.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, both Russia and Ukraine have been vying for support from African nations. Each country’s foreign ministers have conducted several regional tours to garner backing. South Africa’s position has been particularly notable; initially condemning Russia’s actions, South Africa has since adopted a more nuanced stance. The country abstained from multiple United Nations General Assembly votes that condemned Russia’s invasion, reflecting a complex diplomatic balancing act.
Most recently, South Africa attended a peace summit on Ukraine hosted by Switzerland over the weekend. However, along with countries such as India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia, South Africa chose not to sign the final communique. This decision was significant, even though contentious issues had been omitted from the document to attract broader support.
South Africa’s diplomatic tightrope walk was further exemplified during its hosting of a BRICS summit in 2023. Initially, there was consideration of inviting President Putin to attend the summit despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for his arrest on charges related to the alleged deportation of Ukrainian children. Ultimately, Putin opted not to attend the summit, a move that averted a potential diplomatic crisis for South Africa.
The diplomatic exchanges between Russia and South Africa highlight a broader geopolitical context where historical ties, contemporary alliances, and strategic interests intersect. As Russia seeks to maintain and expand its influence in Africa, the continent's nations find themselves navigating a complex web of international relations.
President Ramaphosa’s re-election and the subsequent coalition government indicate a significant shift in South Africa’s political landscape. As his administration moves forward, the balancing act of maintaining historical alliances while addressing contemporary global challenges will continue to shape South Africa’s foreign policy. The congratulatory message from President Putin not only reaffirms the warm ties between Moscow and Pretoria but also sets the stage for ongoing cooperation amid a rapidly changing global order.
