South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

On Wednesday, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss the possibility of South Africa assisting in the treatment of wounded Ukrainians. Zelenskyy shared on his official X account that they talked about the global efforts needed for a just peace and explored South Africa's involvement in the care and rehabilitation of Ukraine's injured citizens.

The two leaders met during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, where Zelenskyy also invited South Africa to join an international coalition aimed at returning Ukrainian children "illegally" deported by Russia.

In 2023, Ramaphosa led an African peace mission to both Russia and Ukraine, attempting to mediate talks to end the ongoing war. The mission, which included six African leaders, visited Kyiv to meet with Zelenskyy and traveled to Saint Petersburg for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Last year, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha visited South Africa to enhance bilateral relations, meeting with South African officials and business leaders. He also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and other conflicts on the continent, highlighting the importance of regional stability.

Sybiha expressed hope that South Africa's leadership of the G20 would bring greater attention to Ukraine's concerns. South Africa assumed the G20 presidency in December, marking the first time an African country has led the group of major economies. Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of this position, noting South Africa's global influence despite having a relatively small economy.