South Africa's navy, mirroring the nation's overall state of disrepair, faces a significant decline, with its fleet spending less than half the time at sea compared to a decade ago, largely due to budget cuts by the ruling African National Congress (ANC). Despite the logical desire for improved fleets, the hosting of Russian and Chinese navies for joint exercises taking place on the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, these operations underscore South Africa's shifting alignment, despite claiming to be “non-aligned” towards the Sino-Russian orbit, a choice that has led to increasing frustrations from the West.

The ANC has historically harbored a favorable sentiment towards Russia, often citing Soviet support during the anti-apartheid struggle. This sentiment, coupled with pragmatic considerations such as South Africa's membership in the BRICS group, has drawn the country towards the Sino-Russian sphere of influence. The West had historically been understanding of South Africa's dual approach, given its pivotal role as a gateway to the continent. However, the war in Ukraine has brought South Africa's supposed non-alignment under scrutiny.

South Africa's abstention on condemning  Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territory heightened tensions with the West. Despite charm offensives President Ramaphosa's decision to abstain indicated the limitations of such efforts in the face of Russian influence.

The ANC's inclination towards Russia has been further underscored by high-profile visits, such as that of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Statements made during Lavrov's visit, advocating for Russia's continued presence in Ukraine and suggesting a redesign of the global order with the BRICS bloc, signaled a deepening alignment with Russian and Chinese interests.

The naval exercises with Russian and Chinese participation mark a notable departure, drawing attention to the ANC's growing links with Russia. Individual ANC politicians' engagements with Russia indicate personal ties that raise concerns among Western diplomats.

As the ANC government leans towards the Sino-Russian orbit, the West grapples with how to respond effectively. Some advocate a tougher stance, questioning preferential trade terms and considering a closer examination of Russia's links to corrupt South African elites. However, with the tragedy being that South Africa, in dire need of international support amid internal challenges, appears to be veering away from its traditional Western allies, making its global aspirations seem increasingly untenable.