Mnangagwa ‘bad-mouths’ Americans during meeting with Vladimir Putin

St Petersburg – Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the 27th St Petersburg Economic Forum on Thursday, where he expressed his gratitude for Russia’s support during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.

However, he also took the opportunity to criticize the United States, accusing them of trying to isolate Zimbabwe and undermine its independence.

“The Americans are consolidating their power in that country both in terms of security and financial support to make sure that we feel lonely,” Mnangagwa said.

“But that did not change us because we have taken a course as a people that we want to be independent and we choose our friends ourselves.”

Mnangagwa praised Russia for its support during the war of liberation.

“You stood by us. Mr President, I’m happy to be here. If opportunities are availed later on, we will find time to chat in terms of supporting each other,” he said.

He highlighted areas where Zimbabwe needs support, including defense and security, food security, and mechanization of agriculture.

“We can’t go to the West. We have to come here because the West would want to see us down. They support our neighbors in Zambia and Malawi heavily,” he said.

Despite being isolated, Mnangagwa boasted that Zimbabwe has the fastest-growing economy in the region.

“So, Mr. President, I’m very happy to be here,” Mnangagwa added.

Zimbabwe has been subject to targeted sanctions over human rights abuses and the regime vowed it will not reform itself out of power.

In March, the United States imposed sanctions on Mnangagwa, First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, and eight other high-ranking officials and three entities.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury alleges that these individuals and three entities have engaged in corrupt activities or serious human rights violations.

According to the OFAC, Mnangagwa is accused of shielding gold and diamond traffickers operating in Zimbabwe, instructing government officials to facilitate the illegal sale of gold and diamonds, and accepting bribes in exchange for his complicity, among other offenses.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said these individuals are being targeted under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program, which aims to hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses and corruption worldwide.