‘Political’ steps against US ambassador for Russian claim

The government has accused Reuben Brigety II of not following proper diplomatic channels to express his country's concerns about Russia's alleged dealings with South Africa.

Brigety has claimed South Africa has supplied arms to Russia.

READ: Govt institutes independent inquiry into Russia arms claim

He says the weapons were loaded onto a Russian freight ship that docked at the Simon's Town naval base in December.

Brigety has been quoted as saying they were confident arms were carried by The Lady R from the base to Russia.

DIRCO's deputy director-general for public diplomacy, Clayson Monyela, has confirmed Brigety will be summoned.

Minister Naledi Pandor will also speak to her US counterpart Antony Blinken on Friday afternoon. 

ALSO READ: US welcomes SA probe into Russia arms supply claims

Speaking in Washington on Thursday night, the US State Department's Vedant Patel said they remained committed to the relationship with South Africa.

"One that is focused on the priorities the two governments share, priorities that the recent high-level delegation to Washington discussed, these include issues of global peace and security, further growing the robust trade relationship and working together on shared health agenda."

On Thursday night, the Presidency said there would be a commission of inquiry into the claims.