Supplying weapons to Russia would be ‘disaster’ – Mbalula
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula says South Africa supplying Russia with arms would be a complete disaster.
"I wouldn't expect the South African government to supply weapons to Russia."
His comments follow allegations by that country's ambassador to our country that South Africa has supplied arms to Russia, which is at war with Ukraine.
Ambassador Reuben Brigety II says they are confident weapons were loaded onto the Russian ship - The Lady R - that docked at the Simon's Town naval base in December.
Speaking to the SABC, Mbalula said the claims would be attended to by the government.
He's also called on the US to respect South Africa's sovereignty.
"When an ambassador of a government like the US says boldly to the world and everyone and every to know that South Africa is in fact, giving arms to Russia, we can't take that lightly. We need to combat that.
"But America must appreciate that South Africa is not a sub-state - a sovereign state and it must respect South Africa, the same as enjoyed over the good trade relations with the US government."
The Presidency says there will be a judicial commission of inquiry into the claims.
Mbalula says if evidence proves weapons were indeed taken to Russia, there should be serious consequences.
"If that would be the case anyone who did that and under their supervision action must be taken by our government because that is anti-government policy in relation to what is happening now in Russia and Ukraine. It undermines South Africa's integrity."
The International Relations Department says Brigety will face a diplomatic demarche.
