ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia: The African Union has called for talks and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The appeal was made by AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat during a phone discussion with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday. "I emphasised the importance of respecting international law and advocated dialogue to find a peaceful solution to the crisis between Russia and Ukraine," Mahamat said in a tweet.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed Mahamat on the reasons for and goals of Russia's special military action in Ukraine, said the Russian Embassy in Ethiopia. According to reports, the Russia-Ukraine war is exacerbating inflationary pressures in Africa caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 55-member pan-African bloc is headquartered in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, and was formally established in July 2002. It has also sparked an exodus of international companies from Russia, including those in the technology, automotive, energy, retail, and other industries.

Ukraine President Zelensky proposes to extend martial law again

Russia begins 2nd phase of special military operation in Ukraine: Lavrov

Russia launches ‘Battle for Donbas’ in Ukraine’s east: Zelensky