" The lesson is that my support for American policy counts for nothing. "
- Mobutu Sese Seko

In this statement, Mobutu Sese Seko expresses his frustration with how his support for American policies has been perceived or valued. He feels that despite backing certain actions taken by the United States, he has not received the acknowledgment or benefits he anticipated.

The underlying message in Mobutu's words is one of disillusionment and a sense of being undervalued on an international stage. It highlights the complexities and often one-sided nature of political alliances and support, especially in contexts where smaller or less powerful nations align with larger superpowers like the United States. The quote suggests that despite his efforts to be a reliable ally, Mobutu found himself overlooked or disregarded by American policy makers, which could indicate broader issues within international relations such as power imbalances and inconsistent alliances.

Mobutu Sese Seko was a key figure in Congolese politics who served as the President of Zaire (now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo) from 1965 until his overthrow in 1997. He was known for maintaining a long-standing relationship with Western powers, particularly the United States, during the Cold War era. His rule was marked by economic mismanagement and political repression, though he also received significant support from various international allies due to his anti-communist stance.