Deputy President David Mabuza has clarified that South Africa isn’t taking sides in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week was to express the country’s support to ongoing negotiations.

The deputy president was responding to questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

Mabuza reiterated that South Africa believes that diplomacy is always the most sensible pathway in averting outbreak of conflict and war.

“Diplomacy should be pursued even if we are in a situation of war. South Africa continues to call for de-escalation of conflict and for parties to work together towards building trust and confidence by intensifying existing peace mechanism and dialogue,” said Mabuza.

The DA has previously accused the ANC-led government of hiding behind a veneer of neutrality, disguised as Russian support.