Russia should immediately withdraw its troops from the Ukraine and try to settle the differences between the two countries through dialogue, South Africa said on Friday.
Russia sent its army to Ukraine ostensibly to keep peace in the country but, as it turned out, the troops have waged a fully-blown invasion of the territory from land, water and air where it has full control after blowing up the airfields.
“South Africa calls on Russia to immediately withdraw its forces from Ukraine in line with the United Nations Charter, which enjoins all member states to settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace, security, and justice are not endangered,” the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation said.
Expressing dismay at the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, the ministry said South Africa “emphasises respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.”
“As a nation birthed through negotiation, South Africa is always appreciative of the potential dialogue has in averting a crisis and de-escalating conflict,” the ministry said.
It added: “In line with our strong commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict, South Africa urges all parties to devote increased efforts to diplomacy and to find a solution that will help avert further escalation.”
It said the armed conflict would result in human suffering and destruction, the effects of which would not only affect Ukraine, but also reverberate across the world.
South Africa called on the UN Security Council to play its role in the search for peace, as it was the primary body tasked with the mandate to maintain international peace and security – “and it must exercise its responsibility fully in this regard.”
NM/jn/APA