An independent investigation has debunked accusations that South Africa supplied weapons to Russia for the Ukraine war, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced. The allegations, made by the U.S. ambassador in May, had raised concerns about South Africa’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The U.S. envoy claimed that the Russian ship Lady R, which docked at a South African naval base in December, loaded weapons destined for Russia. However, the independent panel, led by retired judge Phineas Mojapelo, found no evidence to support these claims.
The allegations had negative consequences for South Africa, affecting its currency, economy, and global standing. Ramaphosa emphasized that the Lady R delivered equipment ordered for the South African National Defense Force in 2018.
While the full report will remain classified due to the sensitive nature of the evidence and concerns about the safety of South African forces deployed across the continent, the investigation’s findings refute the accusations that South Africa supplied weapons to Russia for the Ukraine conflict.
