Russian Embassy hits back at US Ambassador’s claims

Russian embassy in South Africa disputed the claims made by US Ambassador Reuben Brigety that South Africa provided weapons to Russia.

The Russian embassy in South Africa has hit back at claims by US Ambassador Reuben Brigety that South Africa gave weapons to Russia.

Brigety alleged that South Africa armed Russia when a sanctioned ship, Lady R, docked at the Simon’s Town naval base between 6 and 8 December 2022.

READ MORE: Ramaphosa joins peace talks for Russia and Ukraine war

SOUTH AFRICA DENIED ACCUSATIONS MADE BY US AMBASSADOR

In a statement, President Ramaphosa denied the accusation, labelling them “disappointing”.

He further announced the establishment of an inquiry to look into the allegations.

Commenting on the matter, Russian embassy said the US “lost its ability to interact with partners on equal basis long ago”.

It said the only way the US knows how to communicate and form friendships is only by its rules.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Malema labels US accusations against SA ‘unfounded’

RUSSIAN EMBASSY SAYS SA-PRODUCED WEAPONS ARE NO MATCH FOR THEIR ARMS

“If Ambassador Brigety takes this matter seriously then why doesn’t he explain why Russia would need SA-produced arms and ammunition matching neither the types nor the calibers of the systems currently in service with Russia’s armed forces and how such a minuscule amount of ‘arms and ammunition’ that was allegedly ‘uploaded onto the vessel’ would influence the situation on the battlefield anyway?” said the Russian embassy.

ALSO READ: Rand takes a hit after US accuses SA of arming Russia

ALSO READ: Retired judge to lead inquiry into whether SA supplied Russia with arms