Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in South Africa for a state visit to discuss diplomatic ties and peace efforts amid the escalating conflict with Russia. The visit comes at a critical time as recent Russian attacks have resulted in casualties and injuries in Ukraine. Zelenskyy is expected to meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa and is hopeful for productive discussions, although he announced that he would cut the trip short due to the severity of recent attacks on Kyiv. South Africa has expressed a willingness to engage in Ukraine peace talks without preconditions, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic relations.