uMKHONTO weSIZWE Party’s Stance on NATO’S Provocation in the RUSSIA-UKRAINE Conflict

29 September 2024

uMkhonto weSizwe Party firmly opposes the ongoing escalation of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. We recognize that the recent changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, as
announced by President Vladimir Putin on September 25, 2024 mark a dangerous
shift in global security dynamics. These changes lower the threshold for Russia’s
potential use of nuclear weapons, particularly in response to any conventional attack
by non-nuclear states supported by nuclear powers, such as NATO’s involvement in
Ukraine.
Putin’s revised nuclear doctrine signals that any conventional attack on Russia, when
backed by nuclear-armed states like the U.S. and NATO, could trigger a nuclear
response. This doctrine change directly challenges the West’s continued support for
Ukraine, with advanced weaponry now capable of striking deep into Russian
territory. President Putin has made it clear that such actions are viewed as an
existential threat to Russia’s sovereignty, justifying potential nuclear retaliation. This
shift intensifies the risk of nuclear war, which could have devastating global
consequences.
MK Party’s Position on the Escalation:
As Pan-Africanists and as a non-aligned progressive party and peace advocates, the
MK Party, under the leadership of President Jacob Zuma, condemns these dangerous
provocations by NATO and the West. President Zuma has consistently opposed the
militarisation of global conflicts, stating, “Africa must reject war and choose
diplomacy. The risk of nuclear conflict threatens all humanity, and it is driven by the
reckless actions of the West in fuelling this war.”
Points of Concern to MK:

1. NATO’s Escalation: The increased military support by NATO, particularly the
   provision of long-range weapons to Ukraine, has dangerously escalated
   tensions. Western nations are no longer passive actors but active participants
   in this conflict. This involvement provokes Russia further, pushing the world
   toward the brink of nuclear war.
2. Russia’s Nuclear Doctrine: Putin’s recent declaration that any conventional
   attack on Russia backed by a nuclear power will be treated as a joint attack
   significantly widens the scope of Russia’s nuclear response. This raises
   concerns about miscalculations that could trigger catastrophic consequences.
3. Risk of War Crimes: By encouraging Ukraine to escalate its military efforts,
   NATO risks involvement in war crimes. The use of weapons of mass
   destruction, either in retaliation or as a preemptive measure, would result in
   untold civilian casualties and irreversible environmental destruction.
4. BRICS and South Africa’s Role: As a member of BRICS and a longstanding ally
   of Russia, South Africa and the MK Party must push for non-alignment and
   peaceful negotiations. African nations should not be drawn into the Western
   agenda, which serves only to fuel global instability. Instead, we must advocate
   for a ceasefire and peace talks.
5. Humanitarian Crisis: The prolonged conflict has led to a severe humanitarian
   disaster, with civilians in both Ukraine and Russia paying the price. The MK
   Party calls for immediate international humanitarian assistance and a
   cessation of hostilities to prevent further loss of life.
   MK Party’s Recommendations:
6. Advocate for Peace: The MK Party will continue to push for an immediate
   ceasefire and peace negotiations led by neutral actors. Africa must not take
   sides in this global conflict but rather push for diplomatic solutions.
7. Oppose NATO’s Involvement: As a BRICS member, South Africa must firmly
   oppose NATO’s interference in Ukraine, which has only escalated the war. This
   reckless behaviour increases the risk of a broader global conflict, which could
   pull Africa into a geopolitical struggle that does not serve our interests.
8. Support for Russia’s Sovereignty: While we call for an end to violence, the MK
   Party recognises Russia’s legitimate concerns over NATO’s expansion. We
   oppose any attempts to undermine the sovereignty of Russia, Belarus, or any
   other state through foreign military aggression.
9. Call for Global Disarmament: The world stands on the brink of nuclear conflict.
   As part of BRICS, South Africa should advocate for renewed efforts towards
   global nuclear disarmament and oppose the militarisation of international
   relations.
   President Zuma’s vision for a peaceful and unified Africa remains at the forefront of
   our foreign policy. The MK Party rejects the West’s dangerous provocations and calls
   for an immediate cessation of violence in Ukraine. The world cannot afford a nuclear
   war, and it is incumbent upon BRICS and Africa to champion peace and diplomacy.
   “Africa’s role must be one of peace and dialogue. We cannot afford to be drawn into
   a conflict that serves the interests of Western powers at the expense of global
   security,” President Zuma has affirmed
   ENQUIRIES:
   Nhlamulo Ndhlela
   Head: Media and Communications
   Contact mobile: 079 230 3345
   Sipho Tyira
   Manager: Media and Communications (Parliament)
   Contact Mobile: 084 374 4316