Ukrainians in South Africa Protest Russian Participation in Naval Exercises

A group of Ukrainian residents in Cape Town protested on Friday against the participation of Russian naval forces in a multi‑nation military exercise off South African waters, organisers said.

The demonstration took place at Simon’s Town, home to South Africa’s main naval base, where a week‑long exercise involving warships from China, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Russia is underway. Protesters criticised South Africa for allowing the Russian Navy to take part while Moscow continues its military campaign in Ukraine.

“It is emotional and hard for us to see that the Russian navy, which is killing Ukrainian people while doing its navy training in South African waters,” said protester Kateryna Fedkina, urging authorities to end military cooperation with Russia.

South Africa’s deputy defence minister said the exercise had been planned well before the current geopolitical tensions. The event, known as Will for Peace 2026, is being held amid broader debates over global alliances, as some critics argue it undermines South Africa’s declared non‑aligned stance.

The country’s main opposition party also voiced criticism, arguing that the inclusion of Russia in the exercises could affect South Africa’s international posture.

SOURCE: Reuters