Russia to increase military instructors in West Africa’s Burkina Faso

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that Moscow will increase its military instructors in Burkina Faso during his visit to the West African country.

Lavrov emphasized Russia’s commitment to strengthening Burkina Faso’s defense capabilities amid ongoing internal conflicts.

“Russian instructors are working here, and their number will increase,” Lavrov stated. “We are also training members of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies of Burkina Faso in the Russian Federation,” he added.

6.3 million people in need of humanitarian assistance

The announcement comes at a critical time for Burkina Faso. According to the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), violence-related deaths have doubled over the past year. In 2024, 6.3 million people in the country will need humanitarian assistance, with over two million displaced. This crisis has led the NRC to designate Burkina Faso as the world’s most neglected displacement crisis for the second consecutive year.

Lavrov, accompanied by Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yevkurov, met with acting President Ibrahim Traore in Ouagadougou. The visit underscores Russia’s growing involvement in Burkina Faso, currently under military rule following a coup d’état in July 2022. The junta, led by Traore, has prioritized security amid escalating violence.

Russia’s growing influence in Africa continues amid war in Ukraine

The increase in Russian military presence in Burkina Faso occurs as the U.S. warns of Russia’s efforts to expand its influence in Africa. Former U.S. Africa Command head Gen. Thomas Waldhauser noted in 2019 that Russia was using mercenaries and arms sales to gain access to Africa’s natural resources.

Despite international isolation, because it invaded Ukraine, Russia is renewing its focus on Africa. Earlier this year, U.S. Africa Command cautioned Congress about Russia’s aggressive moves to establish a foothold on the continent. Several nations are “at the tipping point” of falling under its sway.

Lavrov expressed gratitude to Burkinabe leaders for facilitating the reopening of the Russian embassy in Ouagadougou.

“We are implementing a program to resume the activities of Russian diplomatic missions in Africa. Burkina Faso was the first country to do this quickly and effectively,” he said.