In a significant shift in foreign policy, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced in February 2025 plans to significantly increase Russia's engagement with African nations. This comes as Russia's Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Dmitry Volvach, predicts that Russian-African trade could double within the next five years, reflecting a strategy to expand Moscow's influence on the continent.
Lavrov's remarks were made during a presentation to the State Duma in Moscow, where he emphasized that after a period of withdrawal following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, Russia is now "re-engaging" with Africa. This renewed focus is underscored by the inaugural Russia-Africa Partnership Forum held in Sochi in November 2024, which attracted over 1,500 delegates and state officials, further solidifying the ties established at the second Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg in 2023.
Historically, the Soviet Union had a strong presence in East Africa, particularly with allies in Somalia and Ethiopia. However, post-Soviet Russia's outreach has expanded to include nations such as Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, and Egypt. Notably, in 2024, Russian troops were deployed to Burkina Faso and Mali, showcasing a military dimension to this renewed engagement. Furthermore, negotiations are underway in at least four African states for the construction of nuclear power plants utilizing Russian technology.
On February 12, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef Ahmed al-Sharif confirmed an agreement during a press conference in Moscow to establish a naval base at Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast. This strategic development is expected to enhance Russia's military presence in the region, providing direct access to the Red Sea, a critical maritime route linking the eastern Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean.
In addition to military cooperation, Russia is also expanding its diplomatic footprint in Africa. Lavrov announced plans to open a new embassy in the Comoros Islands, a strategically located nation in the Indian Ocean. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance diplomatic relations, with intentions to open embassies in Gambia, Liberia, and Togo over the next two years. The embassies in Niger and Sierra Leone are set to resume operations soon, and for the first time, Russia will establish an embassy in South Sudan.
Russia's approach to Africa is multifaceted, combining military, economic, and diplomatic strategies. The Kremlin has been actively involved in arms sales and resource exploitation deals across the continent, leveraging relationships with various African nations. For instance, Russian agricultural exports to Africa surpassed $7 billion in 2024, with Egypt emerging as the largest buyer. This agricultural focus has also sparked a surge of interest among African students in studying agronomy at Russian universities, with applications increasing by 500% from 2020 to 2025.
In a related development, during Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's state visit to Russia from April 21 to 22, 2025, discussions with President Vladimir Putin centered on enhancing Oman-Russia investment cooperation and addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Both leaders called for a "full withdrawal of occupying forces from the Gaza Strip and all other Palestinian territories," underscoring their shared commitment to regional stability.
Putin and Sultan Haitham also discussed regulating Iran's nuclear program, with Russia offering to assist in brokering a nuclear deal. This dialogue reflects Oman’s unique position as a facilitator between the U.S. and Iran, further enhancing its strategic importance in the Gulf region.
Historically, Oman has maintained diplomatic relations with Russia since normalizing ties in 1986, making it the only Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country to sustain consistent relations with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad until his recent overthrow in December 2024. This relationship has evolved through shared perspectives on regional conflicts, including the Yemen crisis and the Saudi-led military intervention against the Houthis.
Trade volumes between Oman and Russia have surged from $171.7 million in 2021 to $346 million in 2024, reflecting a growing economic partnership. In 2023, Oman imported $132 million worth of wheat from Russia, crucial for mitigating inflation risks and supporting its economic stability. As agricultural cooperation remains a strategic priority, Oman looks to Russian expertise in developing its Vision 2040 project, which aims to enhance its ports and logistical infrastructure.
Additionally, Oman has participated in trilateral naval drills with Russia and China in the Gulf of Oman, showcasing increased military collaboration. In October 2024, joint naval exercises were conducted in the Indian Ocean, further solidifying military ties.
Despite the historical complexities of Russia-Oman relations, including past conflicts during the Dhofar Rebellion, the current trajectory suggests a strengthening partnership. Analysts note that Oman’s neutral stance in the Ukraine war and its strategic significance in the Gulf position it as a valuable ally for Russia.
However, the Kremlin's aspirations for greater influence in the region may face challenges. While Russia seeks to leverage its relationship with Oman to gain leverage in U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, experts remain skeptical about its ability to exert significant influence. The ongoing dynamics in the Middle East, coupled with Oman’s established partnerships with Western powers, complicate Russia's ambitions.
As Russia continues to expand its presence in Africa and strengthen ties with Oman, the geopolitical landscape in both regions is shifting. Moscow's efforts to fill diplomatic, military, and economic vacuums reflect a broader ambition to reshape alliances and assert its influence on the global stage.
