From Foreign Policy · Nosmot Gbadamosi · · 1m 50s
Russia’s Africa Influence Peaks?
Russia’s Africa influence faces backlash as young Africans join war in Ukraine.
In brief
Russia’s Africa influence faces backlash as young Africans join war in Ukraine. Russia’s Africa influence has peaked as African leaders withdraw from summit due to war recruitment and lack of investment. Originally reported by Foreign Policy.
Russia-Africa Summit
The third Russia-Africa Summit begins in Moscow on Wednesday with 22 African leaders attending.
Recruitment in Ukraine
Around 3,000 african nationals fight for russia in ukraine’s war, often in dangerous combat roles.
Putin’s Statement
Putin claims a multipolar world is becoming objective and irreversible at the summit opening.
Declining Attendance
African heads of state attendance dropped from 43 in 2019 to 17 in 2023 following russia’s ukraine invasion.
Trade Comparison
Russia’s bilateral trade with africa reached $27 billion last year versus $93 billion with india and $348 billion with china.
Investment Backlash
African leaders criticize russia for failing to deliver on promised investments like nuclear plants.
Nigerian Concerns
Nigerian op-ed questions if young people will be safe after being lured to fight in russia’s war.
Egyptian Relations
Egypt accounts for one-third of russia’s africa trade at $10 billion, focusing on wheat imports.
Military Presence
Russia maintains military presence in mali, libya, and central african republic to prop up unstable governments.
Family Concerns
Zimbabwean media group says families want to know if relatives are alive or when they will return for burial.
Ethiopia’s Conflict
At least 60 people died in oromia region attacks over the past week, linked to rebel alliances.
Kenya’s Missing Activist
Tanzanian activist twaha mwaipaya went missing in kenya after being abducted by armed masked men.
Algerian Deployment
Algeria sends troops to niger for the first time in 50 years to protect energy investments.
What Happens Next
African leaders will push for russia to address war recruitment and investment promises.
The takeaway
Russia’s Africa influence has peaked as African leaders withdraw from summit due to war recruitment and lack of investment.
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