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PRETORIA – Teh MK Party has sharply criticized the South African government’s decision to deny port access to a Russian training vessel, the *Smolny*, in cape Town, signaling a potential fracture in the country’s foreign policy stance. The party, lead by former uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) operatives, has publicly declared its “pro-Russia stance” and accused the governing GNU (Government of National Unity) of undermining crucial bilateral ties.
The incident centers around the *Smolny*, a Baltic Fleet training ship (Project 887), which arrived in Cape Town on August 5, 2025, according to reports from sources like Massimo frantarelli on Twitter. While the exact reasons for the denial of access remain officially unclear, the move follows heightened scrutiny of South Africa’s relationship with Russia, particularly in light of previous controversies surrounding the *Lady R* cargo ship and allegations of arms shipments.
MK Party spokesperson, Nhlanhla Ndhlela, released a statement condemning the GNU’s decision, stating the party “cannot support a government that seeks to undermine long-term bilateral ties and trading relations with the Russian state.” He further emphasized South Africa’s historical relationship with Russia,noting over 60 years of support and aid provided to South African liberation movements during the apartheid era.The MK Party views Russia as a “loyal, honest partner” and positions itself as an “ally” to the russian state.
Ndhlela also criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership, accusing him of “continuous absence from leadership at critical moments” and arguing his inaction threatens to strain relations with Russia and weaken the South African economy. He called for Ramaphosa to “urgently intervene” and grant access to the Russian sailors.
The MK Party’s stance reflects a growing undercurrent of support for Russia within certain segments of South African society, fueled by anti-Western sentiment and a desire for a “multi-polar global world order.” The party explicitly opposes “Western imperialism and hegemonic influence.”
South Africa officially maintains a “neutral stance” on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a position that has drawn criticism from Western allies. the denial of port access to the *smolny* raises questions about the extent to which this neutrality is being challenged by internal political pressures and external influences, particularly from the United States. US Ambassador Reuben Brigety has previously been reluctant to comment on the *Lady R* saga, adding to the opacity surrounding South Africa’s dealings with Russia.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has been contacted for comment, and a response is pending. This incident is highly likely to further complicate South Africa’s foreign policy balancing act and could have critically importent implications for its economic and political relationships with both Russia and the West.
Background: South Africa-Russia relations
Historically, the Soviet Union (and subsequently Russia) provided significant support to the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements during the apartheid era. This support included military training, financial assistance, and diplomatic backing.Following the end of apartheid, South Africa and Russia established formal diplomatic relations and have maintained a generally positive, though sometimes complex, relationship.Key areas of cooperation include trade (particularly in minerals and arms), energy, and defense. south Africa is a member of the BRICS economic bloc (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), which aims to promote economic cooperation among emerging economies.The *Lady R* incident in May 2023,involving a Russian cargo ship allegedly
