Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cut short his official visit to South Africa following a deadly Russian missile and drone strike on Kyiv, the most severe attack on the Ukrainian capital since July.
The assault left at least eight people dead and another 77 injured, prompting Zelensky to quickly adjust his schedule and return to Ukraine. The strikes targeted residential areas and infrastructure, causing widespread destruction and renewed fear among civilians.
Zelensky had already met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa before news of the attack reached him. The Ukrainian leader was expected to address a joint press conference, but those plans were scrapped as he prepared to return home.
The timing of the attack comes amid rising international tension over Ukraine’s position on the Crimean Peninsula. Zelensky recently reaffirmed that Ukraine would never recognize Russia’s control over Crimea, a stance that continues to draw criticism from some quarters.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump responded to Zelensky’s comments by saying they would “do nothing but prolong the killing field.” Trump’s remarks reflect a growing debate in American political circles over the role the United States should play in trying to broker peace in the region.
JD Vance, Trump’s running mate and current Republican vice-presidential candidate, echoed those sentiments, warning that the U.S. might “walk away” from its role in the peace process if both Russia and Ukraine fail to move toward an agreement.
Analysts say such rhetoric could significantly influence the course of negotiations. Steve Rosenberg, the BBC’s Russia editor, suggests that Moscow may seize on Trump’s statements to place the blame for stalled peace talks squarely on Zelensky.
In Ukraine, there is widespread public resistance to the idea of conceding territory in exchange for peace. A resident of Kyiv told a BBC reporter that the Ukrainian people do not want their president to “give up any part of our land,” even in the name of ending the war.
The attack has renewed calls from Ukrainian officials for more air defense support from Western allies. Zelensky has repeatedly urged international partners to increase military aid to help protect cities like Kyiv from further aerial assaults.
Despite the sudden change in plans, Zelensky received a warm welcome during his brief visit to South Africa. Observers noted a friendly atmosphere during his meeting with Ramaphosa, and many South Africans expressed solidarity with Ukraine’s struggle.
Zelensky is expected to address reporters before his departure, where he will likely comment on both the attack in Kyiv and the international response to recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
