Zelensky cuts short South Africa visit after Russian attack on Kyiv

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has cancelled part of his visit to South Africa. This decision follows a Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv.

Local officials reported at least nine deaths and over 80 injuries, including children.

Zelensky announced on X that he would return to Ukraine immediately. He plans to meet with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa first.

He mentioned ongoing rescue operations and "significant destruction" from the attack. Zelensky emphasized that strikes must stop immediately and unconditionally.

His visit to South Africa is a diplomatic breakthrough for Ukraine. Just two years ago, this visit would have seemed impossible.

At that time, President Ramaphosa led a peace mission to Kyiv. South Africa's refusal to condemn Russia frustrated Ukrainian officials.

The geopolitical situation has changed since then. Both countries now share more common interests.

They are increasingly at odds with Washington. The US was once one of Ukraine's closest allies but relations have shifted since Donald Trump's re-election.

Ukraine seeks new international partners, especially in Africa, where many nations have ties with Russia.

South Africa also faces strained relations with the US, which expelled its ambassador and cut aid funding.

South Africa believes its non-aligned stance positions it well for peace negotiations with Russia.

Trump recently accused Zelensky of hindering peace talks after he rejected Russian control of Crimea.

Ukraine insists it will not give up Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014.

Trump claimed a deal to end the war was "very close." He stated that Zelensky's refusal to accept US terms could prolong the conflict.

US Vice-President JD Vance outlined a vision for a deal that would freeze current territorial lines.

He noted both Ukraine and Russia would need to give up some territory but did not specify details.

When asked about recognizing Russia's sovereignty over Crimea, Trump said he just wants the war to end.

However, recognizing Russia’s illegal occupation of Crimea is politically impossible for Zelensky and against international norms regarding borders.