Russia and Burkina Faso Forge New Military Frontiers

Russia's Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Burkina Faso's Prime Minister Apollinaire J. Kyelem de Tambela met in Moscow to enhance military ties. Following Russia's increased focus on Africa post-Ukraine war, Moscow aims to boost its military influence, demonstrated by agreements with 40 African countries.

Russia's Defence Minister, Andrei Belousov, held talks with Burkina Faso's Prime Minister, Apollinaire J. Kyelem de Tambela, in Moscow to strengthen military partnerships, as announced by the Russian defence ministry on Tuesday.

Moscow has aggressively pursued military, diplomatic, and economic interests across Africa, amidst its post-Ukraine war tensions with the West. Russia recently committed to enhancing military aid and supplies to Burkina Faso following a coup in 2022, aligning with broader ties being built in the region.

Despite a decrease in arms exports to sub-Saharan Africa, Russia remains a leading supplier and signed military agreements with 40 African nations at the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit, signaling a future for increased arms sales.

(With inputs from agencies.)