Putin Reaffirms Ties With South Africa as Mashatile Vows to Honour Russia’s Anti-Apartheid Support

ST PETERSBURG, RUSSIA — In a symbolic reaffirmation of historic bonds, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile this week, hailing the two countries’ shared legacy and commitment to global solidarity. The meeting sought to deepen diplomatic and strategic relations, even as South Africa navigates a delicate balancing act between East and West.

Putin’s meeting with Mashatile followed up on the outcomes of the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit, which laid the groundwork for enhanced collaboration until 2026.

“You know that following the second Africa-Russia summit that took place in 2023, here in St Petersburg, we adopted a significant package of joint documents that include the program declaration and the plan of action till 2026,” Putin said during their sit-down.

A Bond Forged in the Struggle Against Apartheid

Deputy President Mashatile used the opportunity to pay tribute to Russia’s role in South Africa’s liberation from apartheid, saying:

“The people of South Africa will never forget Moscow’s help in their liberation from apartheid.”

The comments echoed sentiments previously shared by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who last year called Russia a “valued ally” in South Africa’s long walk to freedom.

This enduring sense of solidarity remains a key pillar of the two countries’ political relationship, especially as both are founding members of BRICS, a coalition that challenges the political and economic dominance of the West.

Political Unity vs Modest Trade

While Russia accounts for only 0.4% of South Africa’s imports, dwarfed by trade with the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom, the political bond between the two nations remains strong.

Putin noted that South Africa and Russia share common global perspectives and frequently coordinate their positions on multilateral platforms.

“Russia and South Africa share solidarity when it comes to international agenda items,” Putin affirmed.

Nuclear Cooperation and Diplomatic Tensions

The meeting comes at a time of strained relations between South Africa and the United States, particularly after Pretoria expressed interest in expanding its nuclear partnerships to include Russia and Iran.

The move, which South Africa says is aimed at boosting its nuclear energy capacity, could deepen its alliance with Moscow but risk fraying relations with Washington.

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Analysts warn that such developments might jeopardise existing energy cooperation agreements and further isolate South Africa from its Western allies.

Looking Ahead

Putin reaffirmed that enhancing partnerships with Africa remains a strategic priority for Moscow, and that South Africa is central to that effort. Mashatile, in turn, reiterated Pretoria’s desire to work closely with Russia, especially in areas such as energy, infrastructure, defence, and global governance.

As the world continues to polarise into shifting geopolitical blocs, South Africa finds itself at the crossroads of history once again — balancing its liberation legacy with modern economic imperatives.

Whether this renewed push toward Moscow will pay dividends or provoke friction remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Russia and South Africa’s political ties are stronger than ever.