Putin, Ramaphosa discuss global food security, Ukrainian crisis

In this file photo, Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) speaks to South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa (right) during a plenary session at the Russia-Africa summit in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia on Oct. 24, 2019. The two leaders discuss global food security and the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis during a telephone conversation on May 12, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed global food security and the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis during a telephone conversation on Friday with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The Russian side confirmed its readiness to supply needy African countries with substantial amounts of grain and fertilizer, including no-cost deliveries, the Kremlin said.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining close coordination during their preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit in August, and the Russia-Africa Summit in July

Putin welcomed Ramaphosa's proposition with regard to the participation of a group of African leaders in potential discussions on the prospects for a resolution of the Ukrainian conflict, according to the Kremlin.

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Putin "set forth his principled assessments of the destructive line pursued by the Kiev regime and its patrons," adding the Russian side had always been open toward working on a diplomatic settlement of the Ukrainian crisis.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining close coordination during their preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit in August, and the Russia-Africa Summit in July.

The leaders also discussed key issues for the Russia-South Africa strategic partnership, and agreed on the importance of developing mutually beneficial relations in a range of fields