THE Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has decided to take political steps against the US ambassador to SA, Reuben Brigety.
Dirco spokesman Clayson Monyela said the decision was made after Brigety alleged on Thursday, 11 May, that a Russian ship was loaded with ammunition and weapons in Cape Town in December.
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Monyela said South Africa values its relationship with the United States of America.
He said they were cordial, strong, and mutually beneficial.
He said Dirco Minister Naledi Pandor will also speak to her counterpart from the USA, Secretary Antony Blinken, in the afternoon.
Brigety said the US is certain that military weapons were loaded onto the Lady R at the Simon’s Town naval base in 2022 and then transported to Russia.
He questioned South Africa’s supposedly neutral stance on the war in Ukraine, and its calls for an end to the conflict.
"The arming of the Russians is extremely serious, and we do not consider this issue to be resolved," said Brigety, without providing any evidence.
Monyela said that to the government’s knowledge, no military equipment has been sold to Russia, as claimed.
