Ukraine protesters slam South Africa Russia naval drill

A group of Ukrainian immigrants gathered in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, to protest against Russia’s participation in a joint military exercise with several nations, including China, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The exercise, dubbed “Will for Peace 2026,” has sparked controversy due to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The protesters criticized South Africa for including Russia in the drill, which they believe undermines the country’s stance on international conflicts. Ukrainian expat Kateryna Fedkina expressed her concerns, stating that it is “emotional and hard” to see the Russian navy, which is “killing Ukrainian people,” conducting training exercises in South African waters. The group is calling on South Africa to cease military cooperation with Russia, which they describe as “an aggressive state.”

The military exercise, which runs from January 9-16, involves navies from the BRICS group of emerging nations, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The drill has drawn criticism from the Democratic Alliance, South Africa’s second-largest party, which argues that it undermines the country’s non-aligned global posture.

South Africa’s Deputy Defence Minister, Bantu Holomisa, has defended the exercise, stating that it was planned long before the current tensions. However, the timing of the drill has raised concerns, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and several of the participating nations, including Venezuela.

The “Will for Peace 2026” exercise is a significant event, bringing together several nations with complex relationships with the United States. The drill highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges of maintaining a neutral stance in a rapidly changing global landscape. As the exercise continues, it remains to be seen how South Africa will navigate its relationships with the participating nations and balance its own international interests. The controversy surrounding the drill serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of global politics and the need for careful diplomacy in maintaining peace and stability.