The USA has confirmed the fact of Russia’s purchase of weapons in South Africa
12.05.2023 - 14:30
A Russian ship loaded weapons in the port of the Republic of South Africa (South Africa).
The representative of the USA in South Africa, Ruben Bridgeti, confirmed that Russia is buying weapons in South Africa. The American diplomat added that the armament of the Russians is extremely serious. According to him, the US does not consider this problem solved and would like South Africa to start practicing its “non-alignment policy”.
The US is also concerned about South Africa’s participation in military exercises with Russia and China on the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine.
It will be recalled that the Russian roller coaster Lady R secretly docked at the Simons Town naval base between December 6 and 8, 2022. The vessel received the cargo at night with the transponder turned off. American intelligence is sure that weapons and ammunition were loaded onto the roller.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa did not comment on cooperation with the terrorist country. Instead, the official said his government was “studying the matter”.
Washington has repeatedly warned countries against providing material support to Russia, warning that those who do so may be deprived of access to the world’s most important markets.
Reference: Lady R is a small vessel designed for transportation of vehicles and cargo containers. It belongs to the Russian company Transmorflot.
In May 2022, the United States imposed sanctions on Transmorflot and six of its vessels, including the Lady R, for illegal weapons shipments.
