PRESS RELEASE

South African President Zuma Continues His Turn Toward Putin

Aug. 31, 2014 (EIRNS)—South African President Zuma is currently on a surprise six-day working visit to Moscow, continuing his turn toward Putin, just as London and Washington are attempting to isolate Putin, using lies about the Ukraine crisis as a pretext. Putin has briefed Zuma on the Ukraine crisis, and they have discussed the situation in Syria.

According to a release from the South African Presidency Aug. 28—after Zuma’s visit had begun—Putin "sought the assistance and support of South Africa when Russia takes over the leadership of BRICS next year," and Zuma "sought support from Russia on the implementation of [his] new government’s priorities around the delivery of basic services like water, sanitation, energy, education, agriculture and tourism." Zuma "also raised the matter of the repatriation of South African fallen heroes who are buried in Russia, including Ivor David Jones, J.B. Marks, and Moses Kotane," a highly symbolic move.

The South African daily Mail & Guardian of Aug. 28 sees President Zuma’s visit as equivalent to President Nixon’s surprise visit to China. M&G explains that both were unexpected moves, and Zuma’s visit may represent—as Nixon’s did—a shift in direction. It looks like Sherlock, in full tweed and with magnifying glass, is finally catching on.