SA calls on Russia to withdraw troops from Ukraine

Several hours ago, Russian president Vladimir Putin launched military action against its neighbour after weeks of rising tensions.

Putin is calling it a special military operation.

But Kyiv sees it as a full-scale invasion and says lives have already been lost as a result of missile attacks on military and civilian targets.

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The The Department of International Relations and Cooperation says it's dismayed that the situation has deteriorated despite calls for diplomacy.

It has stressed its respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

"Armed conflict will no doubt result in human suffering and destruction, the effects of which will not only affect Ukraine but also reverberate across the world. No country is immune to the effects of this conflict," says spokesperson Clayson Monyela.

"South Africa calls on Russia to immediately withdraw its forces from Ukraine in line with the United Nations Charter, which enjoins all member states to settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice are not endangered. 

"In light of the escalating conflict, we call on all parties to resume diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the concerns raised expressed by Russia.

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"South Africa further calls on all parties to uphold and protect human rights and abide by their obligations in terms of international law and international humanitarian law."

The government is calling on the UN Security Council to play a central role in the search for peace.