Russian Navy Admiral Gorshkov frigate arrives at the port of Havana, Cuba, June 24, 2019. Cuban officials announced on June 6, 2024, that four Russian warships, including the Gorshkov, will arrive in Havana starting June 12. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa, File)
PRETORIA — In a move underscoring the enduring diplomatic ties between South Africa and Russia, officials confirmed today that a delegation of high-ranking Russian diplomats, including top military officials, is set to visit Pretoria next week. This visit comes amidst a backdrop of seismic political shifts in South Africa, following the historic electoral defeat of the African National Congress (ANC).
South Africa's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement, emphasizing the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The delegation, comprising diplomats and military personnel, is scheduled to hold talks with South African officials from June 12 to June 17.
Addressing concerns over regional stability, the statement stressed that the visit is purely diplomatic and carries no military threat to the region. South African officials reiterated their commitment to peaceful cooperation and dialogue with all nations.
The announcement follows recent reports of heightened tensions in international relations, particularly between Russia and Western powers. While South Africa maintains a stance of neutrality in global conflicts, the visit of the Russian delegation signals ongoing diplomatic engagements amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
Pretoria — South African officials have commented on the notable presence of Russian military vessels in Havana, stressing that while it draws attention, it does not raise immediate concerns for the region's security. However, this occurrence coincides with Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent remarks suggesting potential "asymmetrical steps" in response to President Joe Biden's decision to authorize Ukrainian use of U.S.-supplied weaponry to protect Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city.
According to Cuba's Foreign Ministry, the four Russian ships set to dock in Havana include the frigate "Gorshkov," the nuclear-powered submarine "Kazan," the fleet oil tanker "Pashin," and the salvage tug "Nikolai Chiker."
During the fleet's arrival at the port of Havana, a ceremonial display is planned, with 21 salvos scheduled to be fired from one of the ships as a gesture of goodwill to the host nation. This will be reciprocated by an artillery battery from Cuba's Revolutionary Armed Forces, as confirmed by the foreign ministry.
