/RUSSIA: S. Africa Confirms Seeking Legal Advice Over Putin's Arrest Warrant

Bloomberg reported that South Africa's government is seeking legal advice over the arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin issued by the International Criminal Court, while Interfax cited the Kremlin's spokesman as noting that Russia is yet to decide on Putin's participation in the August BRICS summit.

• This comes amid mixed messaging from South African officials, as President Ramaphosa's spokesperson noted that the country is "aware of its legal obligations" related to the arrest warrant, while chief diplomat Naledi Pandor confirmed that Putin has been invited to the country.
• Pandor told South Africa's state broadcaster this morning that the government "are awaiting a refreshed legal opinion on the matter," adding that South Africa is "concerned about the situation of the people of Ukraine" and wants to "be in a position where we could continue to engage with both countries."
• Two sources from South Africa's foreign ministry told Bloomberg that the country is unlikely to arrest any visiting head of state and the ruling administration is now looking into various options to avoid executing the arrest warrant.