The South African Presidency has expressed concern over comments made by the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety, alleging that South Africa supplied weapons to Russia.
In a statement, the Presidency stated that Ambassador Brigety’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation and partnership that characterised 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 statement also noted that it is public knowledge that a Russian vessel known as Lady R docked in South Africa, and allegations have since been made about the purpose of the voyage. While no evidence has been provided to support these allegations, the South African government has pledged to institute an independent enquiry to be led by a retired judge.
The US says it has concrete evidence that SA armed Russia in its ongoing war with Ukraine. US Ambassador to SA, Reuben Brigety, says he'd bet his life that a Russian ship that docked at the Simon's Town naval base in December last year, headed back home, fully loaded. #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/G298GsoDKe
— eNCA (@eNCA) May 11, 2023During recent engagements between the South African delegation and US officials, the Lady R matter was discussed, and an agreement was reached that an investigation would be allowed to run its course, and that the US intelligence services would provide whatever evidence they had in their possession.
The Presidency expressed disappointment that Ambassador Brigety has adopted a counter-productive public posture that undermines the understanding reached on the matter and the positive and constructive engagements between the two delegations.
This incident is likely to strain the diplomatic relations between the US and South Africa, especially at a time when both countries are grappling with a range of challenges, including economic recovery, global health crises, and regional security threats.
It is yet to be seen how this matter will be resolved, but it is clear that the South African government is taking the allegations seriously and is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent investigation.
