Following Syria losses, Russia seeks to double down on Africa presence
Following Assad’s fall, Russia has been expanding its influence in Africa by securing a naval base in Sudan and increasing its military presence in Libya to maintain strategic access to the Mediterranean and Red seas.
Since losing a crucial ally, Bashar al-Assad, in Syria, Russia has sought to expand its influence in Africa. And while they align with Moscow’s past efforts to establish new maritime routes in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, these endeavors also give Russia an opportunity to double down on its preexisting spheres of influence.
On Feb. 13, Russia’s ambitions gained momentum after signing an agreement with Sudan to establish a naval base on the Red Sea coast. Although its expected completion remains unspecified, the naval facility would grant Russia the right to station up to four naval vessels, including nuclear-powered ships, in Port Sudan for a 25-year tenure.
There were delays in the original accord, initially inked in 2020, followed by further setbacks due to Sudan's brutal war that began in 2023. However, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef affirmed during a visit to Moscow on Feb. 13 that both nations are now in “complete agreement” with no remaining obstacles, adding, “We have agreed on everything.”
The agreement, first proposed under long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir, was stalled after his ousting following the 2019 Sudanese revolution. The establishment of this naval base is now a strategic coup for Russia, particularly given its recent setbacks in the Middle East.
