Ex-president Zuma backs Putin in Ukraine conflict

Former South Africa President Jacob Zuma has backed President Vladimir Putin in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, terming him as "a man of peace".

Western nations have imposed punitive sanctions on Russia, including the freezing of Mr Putin's foreign assets over his invasion of Ukraine.

But Mr Zuma said Mr Putin's decision was "justifiable", according to a statement released by his foundation.

"We all need peace in this world. Therefore we would like to urge those involved to bring peace as swiftly as possible so that lives can be saved," the statement said.

Mr Zuma was forced out of office by his own party in 2018, the African National Congress (ANC), over corruption allegations. He denies any wrongdoing.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

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