In South African waters, naval maneuvers with Russia and China

The Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov in the South African port of Richards Bay, February 22, 2023. REUTERS - ROGAN WARD

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These are naval exercises that take place for ten days off Durban, the largest port in southern Africa and Richard's Bay, both located on the Indian Ocean.

In South Africa, it is feared that these maneuvers will be perceived as support for Moscow.

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350 South African soldiers are taking part in these operations with the Russians and the Chinese.

On the program: joint artillery fire and tactical maneuvers at sea.

These operations have drawn widespread criticism in South Africa as Pretoria has taken a neutral stance since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, refusing to join Western calls to condemn Moscow.

The South African power reacted to criticism, saying that these are routine exercises, the aim of which is to share skills;

necessary exercises, say the authorities, to fight against piracy and illegal fishing.

They add that these maneuvers with their Brics allies have been planned for two years.

A neutrality undermined by the words of the head of South African diplomacy.

Naledi Pandor called herself a " 

" of Russia during a meeting with her Russian counterpart last month.

In any case, these maneuvers come at the wrong time, underlines a South African analyst.

As February 24 marks the start of the second year of the Russian war in Ukraine, these military operations send the message that South Africa has chosen its side.

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• South Africa

• Russia

• China

• Defense