Former South African President, Jacob Zuma on Monday threw his weight behind Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine describing him as a man of peace.
In a statement released by his foundation on Monday which was sighted by Africa Today News, New York on social media, Mr Zuma described the US and its western allies as ‘bullies’ using Ukraine as a front to bring Russia to its knees through unjustifiable sanctions.
According to Mr Zuma, who is facing corruption charges in his native South Africa, Russia invaded Ukraine to protect itself from NATO expansion.
Read Also: Fresh Report Indicts Jacob Zuma Again For Corruption
He called on those involved to sue for peace.
‘I am certain that His Excellency President Vladimir Putin will reciprocate and will bring all his power to make peace a reality, as I know him to be a man of peace who has worked hard to ensure peace and stability in the globe,’ Mr Zuma said.
On Monday Russia said it will open humanitarian corridors to allow the evacuation of civilians from several Ukrainian cities experiencing heavy fighting, including the capital Kyiv and the besieged port city of Mariupol.
Meanwhile, a fresh damaging report into government corruption in South Africa has recommended further investigations and the possible prosecution of Ex-President of the country – Jacob Zuma for collecting bribes.
The report also recommended further probe are current and former cabinet ministers and senior leaders of the ruling African National Congress party.
It’s the third report to come from three years of investigations, testimonies and cross-examination of witnesses and whistleblowers.
The inquiry has further exposed extensive graft under Zuma at the top levels of government in Africa’s most developed economy.
The latest report was published last Tuesday and has been handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa.
AFRICA TODAY NEWS, NEW YORK