South Africa's Struggle to Deter Putin's Visit

South African officials are hoping that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not attend the upcoming BRICS summit in Johannesburg due to an international arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court. South Africa, as the host country, fears that his presence could result in an international incident. South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile expressed the sentiment that they would be happy if Putin does not come, as they cannot invite someone and then arrest them. The South African government is reportedly in direct communication with Putin regarding the ICC problem.