In a significant diplomatic confrontation, Russia has accused France of illegally militarizing the Indian Ocean archipelago of Mayotte, which remains a point of contention between the two nations. On March 27, 2025, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned what she described as the "unjustified militarization" of Mayotte, emphasizing the potential dangers this poses to regional peace and security.
Zakharova's remarks came in response to recent announcements by French Overseas Minister Manuel Valls regarding an increase in military presence on the island, a French department since 2011. She stated, "Russia systematically opposes the unjustified militarization of any territory, with dangerous consequences for the peace and security of certain regions," a sentiment that underscores Moscow's broader concerns about military escalations in sensitive areas like the Indian Ocean.
Mayotte's status is complicated; while it is officially a French department, its sovereignty is still claimed by the Union of the Comoros, which gained independence from France in 1975. Zakharova asserted that "under international law, this island belongs to the Union of the Comoros," framing the French military presence as an extension of colonial-era control.
Valls had previously announced in early March that France would provide support for its existing naval base in Mayotte. However, Zakharova misinterpreted his comments, suggesting he had proposed the construction of a new military base. This led to a clarification from Valls's office, which emphasized that no new base was being planned.
In a further escalation of rhetoric, Valls characterized Russia's accusations as "scandalous," asserting that they reflect a broader strategy to undermine French interests globally. He stated, "Russia seeks and will seek to harm the interests of France everywhere," linking the accusations to the establishment of a Russian embassy in Moroni, the capital of the Comoros.
The Comorian government has also voiced its concerns regarding the militarization of Mayotte. Interior Minister Fakridine Mahamoud criticized the French plans, arguing that excessive militarization could exacerbate existing tensions in the region. He remarked, "In my view, deciding to excessively militarize Mayotte is not the appropriate response," highlighting the delicate balance of power in the Indian Ocean.
Historically, the people of Mayotte chose to remain French in two referendums held in 1974 and 1976, a decision that has continued to shape the island's political landscape. Valls reaffirmed France's commitment to defending Mayotte's integrity, stating, "We will always defend with the same firmness the integrity of Mayotte, a French department. This is the sovereign choice of the Mahoran people."
The tensions surrounding Mayotte illustrate the complexities of post-colonial relationships in the Indian Ocean, where historical grievances and modern geopolitical strategies intersect. As both Russia and France navigate these waters, the future of Mayotte remains uncertain, caught in the crossfire of international diplomacy.
