South African President Cyril Ramaphosa yesterday expressed his optimism that Ukraine and Russia would consider the African leaders' proposal for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

According to the South African leader, a ten-point proposal was presented which African leaders believe can contribute to various efforts being made by various parties to end the conflict."

"One of the main results of the peace mission has been the positive reception we have received from both sides, which we find encouraging and which gives cause for optimism that the proposals will be taken into consideration," said the South African leader in his weekly newsletter to the country.

Ramaphosa was part of a delegation of seven African countries to Ukraine and Russia that sought to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict between the two countries this weekend.

"As African leaders, our main concern is for the lives of those directly affected by the conflict. We believe that everything must be done to end the fighting to avoid further loss of life, injury, displacement and destruction. As an international community, we need to work together to prevent further suffering," said Ramaphosa, quoted by Lusa.

The African peacekeeping mission included the presidents of Senegal, the Comoros, Zambia and South Africa, along with the prime minister of Egypt and envoys from the Republic of Congo and Uganda, according to the South African Presidency.