South African Presidency Accuses U.S. of Undermining Sovereignty Amid Diplomatic Dispute. Image credit : REUTERS
The South African Presidency has issued a strong statement condemning recent actions and remarks by the United States, accusing Washington of undermining the country’s sovereignty and diplomatic independence.
In a media briefing held at the Union Buildings on Monday, a presidential spokesperson described the U.S.’s conduct as “disrespectful and intrusive,” following a series of public statements from American officials regarding South Africa’s international alliances and domestic policies.
“The Republic of South Africa maintains an independent foreign policy guided by its national interests,” the Presidency said. “Any attempts by foreign powers to coerce or dictate our policy directions are not only inappropriate but deeply disrespectful to our constitutional democracy.”
While the statement did not specify the exact incident that sparked the response, analysts point to growing U.S. criticism over South Africa’s perceived neutrality in global conflicts and its engagement with countries such as Russia and China. The criticism intensified after joint naval exercises involving the Russian and Chinese militaries off South Africa’s coast earlier this year.
The Presidency emphasized that South Africa remains committed to global cooperation and peaceful diplomacy but will not tolerate undue pressure from any nation. “Our sovereignty is non-negotiable,” the spokesperson affirmed.The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria has not yet formally responded, but sources within diplomatic circles suggest that behind-the-scenes discussions are ongoing to ease tensions and reaffirm bilateral ties.
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