South Africa's Diplomatic Dilemma with Putin and BRICS

South Africa's relationship with Russia has caused a diplomatic headache, with Western nations accusing the country of backing Moscow in its war against Ukraine. South Africa initially called on Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine, but later adopted a policy of neutrality towards the conflict. However, a series of actions and statements have undermined this stance, leading to frustration from Ukraine's allies. The economic cost of South Africa's muddled diplomacy is already high, with the rand sinking against the US dollar and concerns over foreign investment and trade deals. The country now faces another diplomatic headache over whether to stand by an invitation to President Putin to visit Johannesburg in August for a Brics summit.