Members of Parliament are at loggerheads on South Africa’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Called by the leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen has accused the ANC-led government of hiding behind the veneer of neutrality to show support of President Vladimir Putin’s actions.

But the Deputy International Relations Minister Mashego Dlamini has affirmed that South Africa is not a puppet to global trends, and has made the correct decision to call for mediation and peace.

“All conflict must be resolved by peace means, and true political and diplomatic efforts as well in line with the international law that is the UN charter. South Africa is always appreciative of the potential dialogue  has in averting the crisis and de-escalating conflict,” said Dlamini.

Meanwhile, the Good Party’s Brett Herron has urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to also speak to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Herron has called on South Africa to be stronger in its call for a ceasefire.