Russian Bid to Strengthen Geopolitical Ambitions in Africa

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Putin's Charm Offensive in Africa: A Bid to Strengthen Geopolitical Ambitions

Russian President Vladimir Putin is embarking on a charm offensive as he hosts African leaders at the second Africa-Russia Summit in St. Petersburg. 

Amidst the backdrop of Russia's involvement in the war in Ukraine, discussions at the summit will focus on food security, especially after Russia's withdrawal from an international grain deal that had helped stabilize food prices in Africa. 

Putin seeks to consolidate Moscow's position in a continent that has gained increasing importance to Russia's geopolitical ambitions. 

The Black Sea Grain Initiative

The initiative brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, allowed the safe passage of agricultural goods through Ukraine's ports despite the conflict with Russia. 

The deal had a positive impact on food prices, but Russia's recent decision to withdraw from it, citing ignored conditions, created concerns in African countries. 

Following the withdrawal, Russia launched strikes on port infrastructure and grain depots in southern Ukraine. 

Putin defended Russia's decision in an editorial, blaming the West for failing to deliver grain to the world's poorest countries and assuring African nations that Russia can replace Ukrainian grain "free of charge" due to an expected record harvest.

The Summit

The summit is essential for Russia's efforts to establish alternative financial and commercial systems that are independent of the West, especially in light of sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine. 

Africa becomes a crucial partner for Russia in this pursuit of new partnerships and economic opportunities. 

While only 17 African heads of state or government will be present at this summit compared to 43 in 2019, Russia attributes the lower attendance to "interference" from the West. 

The event is expected to witness the signing of cultural, humanitarian, and technological deals, along with adopting a resolution focused on Africa-Russia relations, sovereign development, fair access to food, fertilizers, modern technologies, and energy resources. 

The summit's timing is significant as it comes shortly after a mutiny by the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary force, which raised questions about the group's future role in Africa. 

Wagner had been instrumental in Russia's efforts to expand its influence on the continent, but the recent rebellion against the Russian state has created uncertainty about the group's future operations. 

African leaders attending the summit are also likely to assert their diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the war in Ukraine, which they perceive as having broader ramifications, including on African countries. 

While mediation efforts in the past were dismissed by both Russia and Ukraine, African leaders are increasingly aware of their geostrategic significance and are seeking to diversify their economic and political relationships. 

The narrative of shared struggle against "new colonialism imposed by the West" has been central to Russia's strategy in rallying support for its war effort in Ukraine. 

Lavrov's numerous visits to Africa since the invasion further exemplify Russia's commitment to bolstering ties with the continent. 

However, despite growing geopolitical aspirations, Russia's investments in Africa remain limited, and trade volumes have not reached the pledged targets. 

Africa imports significantly more from Russia compared to its exports to Russia, and Russia's share of foreign direct investment in Africa is minimal. 

Nonetheless, Putin's charm offensive in Africa aims to maintain Russia's image as a central global power and not a pariah state in the minds of African leaders. 

As African nations explore multiple suitors for economic and political partnerships, they are determined to be kingmakers rather than get entangled in proxy wars. 

The summit presents an opportunity for African leaders to seek tangible results beyond symbolic pledges and strengthen their geopolitical position in the face of growing competition between Russia and the United States. 

In conclusion, the Africa-Russia Summit represents an essential step in Russia's efforts to expand its influence and establish alternative financial and commercial systems, while also addressing concerns related to food security. 

For African leaders, the summit offers a chance to assert their geostrategic importance, mediate in conflicts like Ukraine, and diversify their economic and political partnerships for maximum strategic benefit. 

While the charm offensive is underway, both sides will be keen to navigate the complexities and translate rhetoric into tangible gains for mutual prosperity.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)