Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – Russia is bolstering its military presence in West Africa, pledging more military aid and instructors to Burkina Faso. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made the announcement on Wednesday during a visit to the Burkina Faso capital, Ouagadougou.
Burkina Faso, which has been under military leadership since a 2022 coup, has previously hosted fighters from the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary outfit. “We have been very closely engaged in all areas of cooperation, including the development of military and military-technical ties,” Lavrov said, according to Russia’s TASS news agency.
This increased military cooperation comes as Russia seeks to expand its influence in Africa and forge new partnerships in the wake of sanctions imposed by the West over the war in Ukraine. Lavrov has embarked on a series of visits to African nations, promoting a “multipolar world” free from dominance by the United States and former European colonial powers.
The move has raised concerns among Western governments, who view Russia’s growing ties with countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger – all of which have seen recent military coups – with apprehension.
Russia’s economic interests in Africa also appear to be growing. News agency RIA reported that Russian aluminum giant Rusal is in talks with Sierra Leone to secure a bauxite mining concession, while diamond producer Alrosa is also reportedly planning discussions with the West African nation.
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