The communications ministry of Zimbabwe reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin has given his counterpart in Zimbabwe a presidential helicopter.
Emmerson Mnangagwa, the president of Zimbabwe, is among the attendees of a two-day conference between Russia and Africa that is being closely watched as a test of Putin’s support on the continent following his invasion of Ukraine.
“His Excellency President Putin has given His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa a Presidential Helicopter,” Zimbabwe’s information ministry said on social media.
Photos of Mnangagwa walking down the stairs of the blue plane and sitting inside, in front of a table with white wine glasses and a bowl of fruit, were published.
Government spokesman Nick Mangwana added on Twitter “This bird will soon be gracing our skies.”
Russia has worked to improve its diplomatic and security connections with Africa after becoming largely marginalised on the international stage since the commencement of the Ukraine offensive.
Mnangagwa, 80, who is running for re-election in what observers say will be a contentious election next month, has long blamed the punitive sanctions for his country’s dismal economic situation.
In a video released by the communications ministry, Mnangagwa was seen standing in front of the helicopter and stating that “the victims of sanctions must cooperate. Western nations have also targeted Moscow.”
Putin announced on Thursday that six impoverished African nations, including Zimbabwe, will receive free food from Russia after Moscow pulled out of an agreement that would have allowed Ukrainian grain shipments to use the Black Sea to reach international markets.
More Stories
Buhari’s govt returned recovered loot to politicians, says ex-presidential aide, Obono-Obla
VIDEO: ‘Holding on to power after expiration of your tenure is invitation to anarchy,’ Patience Jonathan gives Wike a cryptic warning
Tinubu’s lackluster performance responsible for multiple suicide bombings in Borno, says Atiku