The South African Presidency has reacted to the remark of the United States Ambassador to the country, Reuben E Brigety who Alleged the supply by South Africa of weapons to Russia.
According to the Spokesperson to the President, Vincent Magwenya on Thursday, noted with concern that Ambassdor’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation.
And the partnership that characterised the recent engagements between US government officials and a South African official delegation led by National Security Special Advisor to the President, Dr Sydney Mufumadi.
The Presidency explained that a Russian vessel known as Lady R docked in South Africa. “Allegations have since been made about the purpose of the voyage.
“While no evidence has been provided to date to support these allegations, the Government has undertaken to institute independent enquiry to be led by a retired judge”, the Presidency added.
Moreso, he stated that 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 US intelligence services will provide whatever evidence in their possession.
The Presidency noted with disappointment that US Ambassador has adopted a counter-productive public posture that undermines the understanding reached on the matter and the very positive, constructive engagements between the two delegations.
It was reported that the US Ambassador accused South Africa of supplying arms to Russia in a covert naval operation, escalating a foreign policy crisis for President Cyril Ramaphosa over the country’s ties to the Kremlin and position in the Ukraine war.
Brigety told local media on Thursday that the United State believed the arms and ammunition were loaded onto the Lady R, a Russian vessel under sanctions that docked at Simon’s Town naval dockyard near Cape Town in December.
