South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has voiced deep concern over recent United States military action in Venezuela, describing it as a violation of that country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaking at the 31st annual commemoration of anti-apartheid leader Joe Slovo at Avalon Cemetery in Soweto, President Ramaphosa called for the immediate release of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who were reportedly detained during the intervention.
In his address, President Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa “rejects utterly” the actions undertaken by Washington and stands “in solidarity with the people of Venezuela”. He reiterated the principle that respect for national sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes form the cornerstone of international law, urging the United Nations Security Council to act decisively to preserve global stability and uphold the rule of law.
The South African leader’s statement aligns with Pretoria’s long-standing foreign policy position, which prioritises non-intervention and multilateral engagement in addressing international crises. The country has consistently advocated for diplomatic solutions within the framework of the United Nations Charter, a position rooted in its own historical experience of solidarity from the Global South during the anti-apartheid struggle.
Regional observers note that the African Union has similarly underscored the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law in global governance, particularly as smaller states navigate power asymmetries in a shifting geopolitical landscape. Analysts argue that South Africa’s position reflects a broader pan-African perspective that seeks to assert the continent’s moral agency and promote a more equitable international order, one that moves beyond unilateral interventions by major powers.
While Washington has defended its actions as necessary to safeguard democracy and human rights in Venezuela, critics have warned that external military involvement risks exacerbating tensions and undermining the legitimacy of international institutions. Pretoria’s response, therefore, can be viewed as part of a wider call from the Global South for renewed commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and respect for sovereignty as the foundation of sustainable peace.
South Africa’s expression of solidarity with the Venezuelan people underscores its continued commitment to a world order that prioritises cooperation over coercion and justice over domination. It reflects a diplomacy informed by Africa’s historical struggles for self-determination, reinforcing the continent’s role in shaping global discourse on peace, sovereignty, and human dignity.
