Mnangagwa expresses worry over cosy US-Zambia relations

President Emmerson Mnangagwa criticized Zambia's growing ties with the United States, accusing the U.S. of consolidating power in Zambia to isolate Zimbabwe.

In a viral video from St. Petersburg, Russia, Mnangagwa was seen requesting military support from Russian President Vladimir Putin to counter perceived threats to Zimbabwe's sovereignty.

Mnangagwa lamented that Zambia and Zimbabwe, once part of Northern and Southern Rhodesia, are now separate, with the U.S. providing security and financial backing to Zambia. He emphasized Zimbabwe's alliance with Russia, calling for unity and innovation.

The remarks come amid strained diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and Zambia under Mnangagwa and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. Former Zimbabwean Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi criticized Mnangagwa's comments as reckless and inappropriate for an incoming Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The public reaction was harsh, with many criticizing Mnangagwa's statements as embarrassing and unnecessary. Critics likened his comments to a desperate attempt to secure favor from Putin by sharing information already known to Russia.