Russia has announced plans to deepen its ties with African countries, particularly in areas like defense and security, according to the Kremlin. This move comes in the wake of the withdrawal of the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization, from Mali, where they had been assisting the military junta in fighting Islamist militants.
Despite the Wagner Group’s departure, the Kremlin-backed Africa Corps has stated that it will continue its operations in Mali, signaling Russia’s ongoing support for the country. The Africa Corps emphasized on its Telegram channel that Russia’s influence in Mali remains strong and that the support provided will now focus on a more fundamental level.
This shift in strategy may indicate a move towards training local forces and providing equipment rather than direct combat involvement for Russia. Experts believe that this change could be a more sustainable approach to supporting African nations in their security challenges.
In response to questions about Russia’s increased presence in Africa, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia is committed to deepening cooperation with African countries, with a focus on economic and investment partnerships. He also mentioned that this cooperation extends to sensitive areas like defense and security, reaffirming Russia’s commitment to working closely with African states in these areas.
Russia’s expanding security footprint in countries like Mali, the Central African Republic, and Equatorial Guinea has raised concerns in the West, particularly in relation to French and U.S. influence on the continent. The establishment of the Africa Corps with support from the Russian Defense Ministry came after the failed mutiny in June 2023 led by Wagner Group founders Yevgeny Prigozhin and Dmitry Utkin, who both tragically died in a plane crash two months later.
Overall, Russia’s deepening engagement in Africa underscores its growing presence on the continent and its commitment to fostering strong partnerships with African nations across various sectors, including defense and security. This strategic shift aligns with Russia’s broader foreign policy objectives and its efforts to expand its influence in key regions around the world.
