…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media. Reports indicate that the US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, made assertions in May without proper authorization, causing controversy.
He stated that he was willing to bet his life on South Africa providing arms and ammunition to Russia through the Lady R ship.
However, it has been revealed that Brigety did not have permission from his superiors to make such allegations.
Accusations Overstated and Damaging:
According to US officials cited by Politico, the Biden Administration is deeply unhappy with Brigety’s statements.
They claim that his accusations were exaggerated and potentially harmful to US interests in the long term.
The allegations made by the ambassador have raised concerns about the impact on diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Unauthorized Press Conference:
The Mail and Guardian, a South African publication, reported that DIRCO Minister Naledi Pandor discovered that Brigety’s press conference had not been sanctioned by the US government during a telephone call with Washington.
It is reported that the ambassador is now facing reprimand from his government for his unauthorized statements.
Diplomatic Fallout and Apology:
Following the allegations, Minister Pandor summoned Ambassador Brigety to discuss the matter.
According to DIRCO, Brigety apologized during the meeting.
However, his public statement expressed gratitude for the opportunity to “correct any misimpressions left by my public remarks.”
This indicates some level of contradiction regarding the nature of the discussion between the ambassador and the minister.
Investigation and Denials:
President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed an independent panel to investigate the Lady R controversy, responding to the allegations made by Brigety.
Some South African ministers have reportedly denied the accusations, while opposition leader John Steenhuisen has claimed that the government has been suspected of supplying weapons to Russia for the past 18 months.
Conclusion:
The unauthorized claims made by US Ambassador Reuben Brigety regarding South Africa’s alleged arming of Russia have caused a diplomatic fallout between the two countries.
The Biden Administration has expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the accusations were overstated and potentially damaging to US interests.
South African officials have voiced their concerns and initiated an investigation into the matter, while Brigety faces reprimand from his government for his unauthorized statements.
The impact of these allegations on bilateral relations remains to be seen.
Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn
Read Related News On TDPel Media
