For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Halima Frost.

Making headlines: Ramaphosa pushes for mediation in Russia-Ukraine conflict; No new Covid-related deaths as cases climb by 1 147; And, Tripoli tense amid standoff between Libya's two rival governments

Ramaphosa pushes for mediation in Russia-Ukraine conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has once again pushed government’s mediation stance in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and called on both countries to reach an agreement that will lead to the cessation of hostilities.

Ramaphosa said the reason why South Africa declined to support the United Nations resolution against Russia was because it did not focus on the call for meaningful engagement.

Political parties have criticised South Africa for its decision to abstain.

Ramaphosa said since the outbreak of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, South Africa’s position has been to affirm peace.

He explained that prior to the resolution being passed at the UN last week, talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials had already started, adding that South Africa expected that the UN resolution would welcome dialogue between the parties and seek to create the conditions for these talks to succeed.

No new Covid-related deaths as cases climb by 1 147

No Covid-19-related deaths were reported in the last 24 to 48 hours, according to the Department of Health, which means the death toll remains at 99 543.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases reported that 1 147 new Covid-19 cases were identified in South Africa, which represent a 6.1% positivity rate.

Meanwhile, there has been an increase of six hospital admissions in the past 24 hours.

There are 2 545 people in public and private hospitals.

And, Tripoli tense amid standoff between Libya's two rival governments

A long ceasefire has brought life back to Tripoli's Algeria Square, its roundabout replanted with grass and customers lingering into the night at the Aurora Cafe, but Libya's new crisis of two governments threatens to upend that peace.

Home to the city hall, post office and a mosque converted from the colonial-era Italian cathedral, Algeria Square plays a big role in the capital's civic life. But it is also near likely front lines in a battle many Libyans fear may soon erupt.

The standoff worsened this week as the parliament in the east swore in a new administration while the incumbent in Tripoli refused to cede power.

The increased number of security vehicles racing through the capital's streets are a sign of a crisis that could trigger fighting if no deal can be reached.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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