What did Ramaphosa and Putin discuss about the Ukraine war and South African fighters?

President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirms support for peace talks in Ukraine during call with Putin. President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s support for a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war during a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday. According to a statement issued by the Presidency, Ramaphosa “expressed South Africa’s ongoing support to diplomatic and peaceful efforts aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” adding that this position is consistent with South Africa’s long-held view “that all wars end through negotiations.” The call took place on February 10, 2026, during which Putin briefed Ramaphosa on developments in Ukraine and on what Russia described as its “commitment to a diplomatic solution.” On bilateral relations, Ramaphosa welcomed ongoing engagements with Moscow to strengthen economic cooperation.

“President Ramaphosa welcomed the engagements with Russia aimed at advancing the development of a mutually beneficial trade and investment framework within the Russia-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership.” said the Presidency. The two leaders also discussed cooperation in multilateral platforms, including BRICS and the G20, where both countries play active roles. In a significant development, Ramaphosa and Putin pledged support for the return of South Africans who are currently fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.

“President Ramaphosa and President Putin pledged their support to the process of returning South Africans fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine,” the Presidency said. “In this regard, teams from both sides will continue their engagements towards the finalisation of this process.” South Africa has repeatedly positioned itself as a non-aligned actor in the Ukraine conflict, calling for dialogue while maintaining diplomatic and economic ties with both Russia and Ukraine.