South Africa has allegedly denied entry to Cape Town port to a Russian naval training vessel, The Smolny, a move seen as a calculated effort to avoid jeopardising sensitive trade negotiations with the United States.
The vessel, part of Russia’s Baltic Fleet and carrying over 400 personnel – including 200 naval cadets – was scheduled to dock for resupply and rest during its African tour.
According to reports monitored here on Thursday, the decision to block the ship’s entry was linked to “late negotiations with Donald Trump over the tariffs saga”.
The South African government has not officially commented on the matter, with the lack of transparency fuelling speculation that Pretoria is attempting to balance its diplomatic posture amid rising global tensions.
The incident comes as South Africa faces increased pressure from Washington over its trade policies and political allegiance.
The Trump administration recently imposed a 30 percent tariff on South African imports, prompting Pretoria to roll out an economic response package and intensify negotiations to preserve its export competitiveness.
The decision to bar the Russian vessel drew sharp criticism from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which accused President Cyril Ramaphosa’s government of undermining long-standing ties with Russia.
In a statement on Thursday, the MK described Russia as a “loyal, honest partner” and condemned the move as a betrayal of BRICS solidarity and historical alliances.
Before arriving in South Africa on 5 August, The Smolny had previously made stops in Equatorial Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe and the Republic of Congo in July.
It is expected to continue its voyage to Tanzania and Vietnam before returning to Vladivostok in late September.
JN/APA