Ukrainians protest against Russian participation in navy drills in South Africa
A joint military exercise named "Will for Peace 2026" is taking place from Mon, Jan 9, 2026, to Mon, Jan 16, 2026. The exercise involves naval forces from the BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
A joint military exercise named "Will for Peace 2026" is taking place from Mon, Jan 9, 2026, to Mon, Jan 16, 2026. The exercise involves naval forces from the BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The exercise, hosted by South Africa, includes the participation of Russian naval forces. This has led to criticism due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Local Responses and Political Implications
South Africa's deputy Defence Minister, Bantu Holomisa, has stated that the exercise was scheduled before the current geopolitical tensions. However, the Democratic Alliance, South Africa's second-largest political party, has expressed concerns that the drill contradicts the nation's non-aligned global stance.
A joint military exercise named "Will for Peace 2026" is taking place from Mon, Jan 9, 2026, to Mon, Jan 16, 2026.
The presence of Russian forces has been specifically criticized by Ukrainian expatriates living in South Africa, who have urged the South African government to reconsider its military collaborations with Russia.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
