Ramaphosa, Putin support return of SA fighters from Ukraine

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Russian President Vladimir Putin have pledged their support for efforts to return seventeen South Africans who are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.

Relatives of the men say recruiters lured them to Russia in July last year, promising training as bodyguards.

They later found themselves caught up in the war.

Ramaphosa, Putin discuss Ukraine war and diplomacy

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa and Putin spoke by telephone on Monday, 10 February 2026.

During the call, Putin briefed Ramaphosa on the situation in Ukraine.

Their discussion covered diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, as well as broader cooperation between South Africa and Russia.

“President Ramaphosa and President Putin pledged their support to the process of returning South Africans fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine,” Magwenya said.

He added that teams from both countries would continue talks to finalise the process.

Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s support for a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Presidency said this stance reflects South Africa’s long-held view that wars end through dialogue.

According to the statement, Ramaphosa expressed support for diplomatic and peaceful efforts to resolve the conflict, while Putin outlined what Russia described as its commitment to a diplomatic solution.

Trade, BRICS and G20 cooperation discussed

The two leaders also spoke about strengthening economic ties.

Ramaphosa welcomed ongoing engagements aimed at building a mutually beneficial trade and investment framework under the Russia–South Africa strategic partnership.

They further discussed cooperation within multilateral forums, including BRICS and the G20, where both countries remain active members.