The Sudanese government has officially confirmed the agreement for Russia’s naval base on the country’s Red Sea coast, indicating that all obstacles to its implementation have been resolved. This decision by Russia to establish a naval base in Sudan is driven by strategic, military, and economic motives, in line with its broader agenda to expand influence in Africa and bolster its global military presence.
The establishment of this base would mark Russia’s first permanent naval presence on the continent, providing a significant foothold in a region of increasing geopolitical importance. The base is expected to serve as a crucial logistics hub for Russian warships, including nuclear-powered vessels, enhancing Russia’s naval capabilities in the Red Sea and beyond.
According to Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef, a final agreement has been reached with Russia, with both parties in complete agreement regarding the port’s establishment. The only remaining step is the ratification of the agreement, following which construction and operational planning can commence.
This move highlights Russia’s strategic realignment, particularly in the wake of recent geopolitical changes such as the loss of military assets in Syria. As competition among global powers intensifies, Russia’s decision underscores its ambition to secure a lasting foothold in Africa’s evolving security and economic landscape.
The choice of Sudan for the naval base is not arbitrary, as plans for its establishment near Port Sudan have been in progress since 2019 under former President Omar al-Bashir, with the initial agreement signed in November 2020. Despite facing uncertainties due to the military takeover and conflict in 2023, the proposed 25-year agreement would enable Russia to establish a naval logistics hub hosting warships and personnel.
Russia’s interest in Port Sudan has escalated due to concerns about losing military assets in Syria, following the termination of a treaty by Syria’s new government that allowed Russia to lease a port housing its only foreign naval base. This development has prompted Russia to seek alternative strategic locations, with Port Sudan emerging as a prime target.
The strategic location of the Red Sea, essential for global commerce and defense, makes it an attractive site for Russia’s naval expansion. If the agreement is finalized, Russia would join other global powers like the US, China, and France in having a naval presence in the strategic and trade routes off the Horn of Africa.
