Mnangagwa escalates Zimbabwe, Zambia tiff

Zimbabwe has intensified its diplomatic rift with Zambia, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's spokesperson, George Charamba, accusing Zambian authorities of collaborating with the United States government to undermine Zimbabwean counterparts. This escalation follows Mnangagwa's disclosure to Russian President Vladimir Putin that Zambia poses a security threat due to heavy US funding in its security sector.

Charamba's remarks on social media underscored Zimbabwe's concern over Zambia's alleged alignment with the US, suggesting it positions Zambia as Zimbabwe's adversary. He referenced SADC's resolution against foreign military influence and cited past instances where African solidarity resisted foreign intervention in the region.

The accusations against Zambia coincide with reports of US Africa Command (Africom) establishing an office at the US embassy in Lusaka, although Zambian President Hichilema dismissed these reports as routine diplomatic arrangements.

This strain in relations isn't new, with tensions flaring after the 2023 Zimbabwean elections when a Zambian-led SADC observer mission criticized the polls. Political analysts view Zimbabwe's stance as undiplomatic, aimed at deflecting from its own diplomatic missteps.

Despite Mnangagwa's attempt to impress Putin with such accusations, analysts argue that Putin prioritizes more substantial alliances, like stable political environments and economic benefits, over petty disputes.

While relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe have deteriorated in recent years, analysts believe they won't worsen further, stressing the need for both countries to address underlying issues and uphold their historical relationship.