Russia is ramping up its military presence in West Africa, focusing on expanding its influence and solidifying connections in the region. Recently, the Kremlin sent troops to Niger, replacing the US forces previously stationed there. Now, Russia has announced plans to increase its military footprint in Burkina Faso.
During a visit to Burkina Faso, Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, disclosed plans to boost the number of Russian military instructors in the country. “Russian instructors work here and their number will increase,” Lavrov stated at a news conference in Ouagadougou. He also mentioned that Burkina Faso’s armed forces and security personnel are being trained in Russia.
This move is part of a broader strategy by Russia to extend its military reach across Africa. In May, following a fallout between Niger and the United States, Russian troops swiftly moved into Niger, taking over Airbase 101 near Niamey’s Diori Hamani International Airport. The rift with the US arose after Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, accused American officials of trying to control Niger’s international partnerships and failing to justify the presence of US troops in the country.
This diplomatic strain provided an opening for Russia to step in and strengthen its military ties with Niger. Additionally, in May, São Tomé and Príncipe, two Central African nations, decided to enter into a military partnership with Russia. The agreement includes joint troop training, armed forces recruitment, the use of military equipment, logistics, and sharing expertise in combating extremism and international terrorism.
Russia’s efforts to increase its military influence in West Africa signal a significant shift in the region’s geopolitical landscape, with potential implications for international alliances and security dynamics.
