US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, has issued an apology to the South African government and people for comments he made accusing the country of supplying arms to Russia.
The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said in a statement that Brigety admitted to having ‘crossed the line’ during a meeting on Friday. The apology comes after Brigety told reporters on Thursday that the US was convinced that South Africa had supplied arms to Russia despite claims to be neutral. He alleged that a Russian cargo ship, Lady R, which docked at Simon’s Town naval base in Cape Town from December 6 – 8 had loaded weapons and ammunition as it made its way back to Russia.
Following Brigety’s remarks, the South African presidency expressed concern and announced plans to establish an independent inquiry led by a retired judge to investigate the claims. The DIRCO summoned Brigety for a meeting on Friday, during which the ambassador apologised unreservedly for his conduct and statements.
‘Following today’s meeting, Ambassador Reuben Brigety admitted that he crossed the line and apologised unreservedly to the Government and the people of South Africa,’ DIRCO said in a statement. Brigety also took to Twitter to express his gratitude for the opportunity to speak with Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor and to reaffirm the strong partnership between the two countries.
DIRCO reminded the US Embassy in Pretoria to use established diplomat
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ic channels to convey concerns or seek clarity on any misunderstandings that may arise in the relationship. The ministry also emphasised that South Africa is known globally for having one of the most stringent processes when selling arms to countries. ‘The process is managed by the National Convention Arms Control Committee (NCACC), which was created through an Act of Parliament, the National Conventional Arms Control Act 41 of 2002 (NCAC Act), and the Constitution,’ it said.
US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken also spoke with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor on Friday and underscored the importance of the US-South Africa strategic partnership. He reiterated cooperation on shared priorities, including health, trade, and energy.
