Political Analyst, Professor William Gumede, says he believes BRICS allies should collectively intervene to help end Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.
With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine into its third week, over 2.5 million people have fled to neighbouring countries. International oil prices have been fluctuating due to Russia being the world’s second top producer of crude oil.
Leaders worldwide have highlighted the negative economic impact that the conflict will have across the globe.
Professor Gumede says, “We are part of BRICS, which is Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It is a trade alliance, not a political one. BRICS countries probably have the most influence on President (Vladimir) Putin of Russia.”
“Before Russia invaded Ukraine, Putin did make it clear that something was up to the BRICS countries and that is why we saw afterward that all of the BRICS countries had stayed neutral. They haven’t condemned Russia. South Africa is the same, we are sitting on the fence. We are not condemning the Russian invasion. The invasion is wrong.”
Russia-Ukraine | SA asked to mediate in conflict:
President Cyril Ramaphosa has been approached to play a mediation role in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Ramaphosa has reiterated South Africa’s stance on the invasion of Ukraine by Russian soldiers that the conflict could be resolved through mediation.
Thousands have been displaced as they flee from the conflict. It has also left some dead following the constant bombardment and shelling by the Russian army.
Russia-Ukraine Conflict | SABC speaks to Russian Ambassador to South Africa Ilya Igorevich Rogachev:
