Russia deepens ties with Africa, new embassy in Burkina Faso

In a move seen as a significant step in expanding its influence across Africa, Russia will officially open its embassy in Burkina Faso’s capital on December 28th.

This marks a new chapter in Moscow’s diplomatic outreach on the continent, driven by a strategic blend of military support, security training, economic investments, and active engagement.

The Burkina Faso embassy is not an isolated action. It forms part of a broader Russian strategy to strengthen its global reach and cultivate new allies, particularly in resource-rich and strategically important regions like Africa. Alexey Saltykov, currently the Russian Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire, will assume temporary duties until a permanent envoy is appointed.

The embassy’s size, mirroring most Russian missions in West Africa, is but one piece of a larger puzzle – Moscow plans to open two more embassies and five consulates across the continent in the near future.

For Burkina Faso, wrestling with the scourge of jihadist insurgencies, Russia’s offer of security assistance and investment holds significant potential.

In return, Moscow could secure political support or economic concessions, cementing its foothold in the region. This symbiotic relationship highlights the strategic underpinnings of Russia’s diplomatic expansion in Africa.

The decision to open the embassy did not materialize overnight. Orders signed by Prime Minister Mishustin in 2023 paved the way, and President Putin himself has repeatedly emphasized the importance of stronger ties with African nations.

The Ouagadougou embassy opening is a tangible manifestation of this policy, underscored by the symbolic playing of the Russian anthem at a recent football match in Burkina Faso.

This not only signals Russia’s growing presence but also its ambition to build deeper, more meaningful relationships with African nations.

Russia’s renewed focus on Africa comes amidst shifting global realities and a desire to counter what it perceives as Western dominance. While Moscow’s motives may be multi-faceted, its intensifying engagement on the continent is undeniable.

The opening of the embassy in Burkina Faso marks a pivotal moment in this strategy, one that will undoubtedly be watched closely by observers and regional players alike.

Scroll to Top