South Africa Responds To US’ Claims Of Weapon Supply To Russia

By Jean-Pierre Afadhali

South African Presidency has said in a statement that US ambassador’s remarks claiming that Pretoria supplied weapons to China undermines the spirit of cooperation that characterized between two countries’ recent engagements led by national Security Special Advisor to the President, Dr Sydney Mufumadi.

United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety, has accused South Africa of supplying weapons and ammunitions to Russia, allegations that could hinder two countries’ diplomatic relations. Amid war that Russia started in Ukraine, Moscow could be seeking support from its allies as the west continues to provide weapons to Kiev.

Meanwhile, South African presidency has acknowledged that a Russian vessel known as Lady R docked in South Africa, saying allegations have since been made about the purpose of the voyage. According to the presidency no evidence has been provided to date to support “these allegations”.

Despite dismissal of alleged support to Russia, the Presidency has revealed the Government has undertaken to institute an independent enquiry to be led by a retired judge.

“In recent engagements between the South African delegation and US officials, the Lady R matter was discussed and there was an agreement that an investigation will be allowed to run its course, and that the US intelligence services will provide whatever evidence in their possession.” Read the statement released on Thursday.

“It is therefore disappointing that the US Ambassador has adopted a counter-productive public posture that undermines the understanding reached on the matter and the very positive and constructive engagements between the two delegations.” Added the statement seen by this Publication.

South Africa is said to be non-aligned in Ukraine-Russia conflict that has divided global powers.