South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s safety remains intact despite the unfortunate situation that unfolded during his travel to Ukraine. Some members of his security detail are currently stranded on a plane in Poland, but according to his spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, there has been no compromise in terms of the president’s safety.
In a video posted on Twitter, Magwenya expressed regret over the incident and assured the public that efforts were being made to resolve the situation. He confirmed that President Ramaphosa had safely arrived in Kyiv via train, accompanying other heads of state and government participating in the peace mission to Ukraine and Russia.
Magwenya further emphasized that the impasse involving the charter flight, the presidential protection services team, and the media did not pose any risk to the president’s security.
The flight, carrying over 100 people, including the stranded security team, had landed in Warsaw, the capital of Poland, on Thursday afternoon. Head of the presidential security team, Maj Gen Wally Rhoode, accused Poland of jeopardizing Mr. Ramaphosa’s security by preventing them from disembarking and continuing their journey to Ukraine.
According to the Polish Border Guard, the issue arose due to the South Africans lacking the necessary paperwork for their weapons. The agency clarified on Twitter that the delegation members could have left the plane but chose to stay onboard. The flight crew received instructions from border guards and had the opportunity to rest during this time.
Warsaw Chopin Airport stated in a statement to the BBC that the decision to remain on the plane was voluntary. Airport services are in contact with the passengers and ready to provide support. Departure of the plane with its passengers is scheduled to take place soon, as per the airport authorities.
Despite the regrettable circumstances, the safety of President Cyril Ramaphosa remains a top priority, and measures are being taken to address the situation, ensuring a smooth continuation of his trip, including the Russian leg.
