Coup Wave in Africa Fuels Geopolitical Tensions: An opportunity for Russia

Days after military coup that overthrown the democratically elected president of Niger tensions are escalating between Western nations and Russia, with the Africa continent at the epicenter of their geopolitical struggle.

As thousands of supporters of the takeover gathered at the French embassy in Niamey, Niger’s capital, waving Russian flags and chanting anti-French slogans, the images sent shockwaves through Western capitals.

The coup in Niger marks the fifth military takeover in western and central Africa in the past three years, with five of those countries being former French colonies.

The West, particularly France and the United States, has lost a key ally in the fight against Islamist jihadists in the region.

Niger’s strategic importance lies not only in its fight against insurgency, but also as a leading supplier of uranium to the European Union, producing approximately 5% of the world’s supply of the mineral.

France’s historical ties with its former colonies have long been criticized under the term “Françafrique.”

This legacy has fueled a rising tide of anti-French sentiment, with many Nigeriens blaming France for their country’s persistent poverty and economic struggles.

Amidst this backdrop, Russia sees an opportunity to extend its influence across the African continent. While there is no evidence that Russia instigated Niger’s rebellion, the Russian mercenary group Wagner has been instrumental in propping up military juntas in the region.

Reports indicate that Wagner might seek to exploit the crisis in Niger to further its interests.

Experts warn that Western influence in Africa is being challenged, with China previously considered the primary rival, but Russia’s recent efforts have raised concerns among Western intelligence services.

Wagner’s association with atrocities perpetrated against civilian populations in Mali and Sudan has drawn international scrutiny, but it remains active in various African nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s charm offensive at an African leaders’ summit in St. Petersburg further underscored Russia’s growing interest in the continent.

Despite a less-than-expected turnout of African heads of state, Putin pledged support and gifts, including debt relief and aid to African countries.

Meanwhile, African leaders like Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso, one of the continent’s youngest heads of state, have turned away from traditional partners and embraced Russia.

Read also: Mali Removes French as a National Language

Traore attended the summit and expressed support for a multipolar world and sovereignty for African nations.

As the anti-French sentiment continues to grow, experts believe that Paris faces a significant challenge in rebuilding its relationship with Francophone countries.

The competition for Africa’s resources and markets is intensifying, with not only Russia but also the UK, China, and the United States seeking to deepen their ties with the continent.

The situation in Africa remains fluid, and the implications of the recent coup in Niger extend far beyond the country’s borders.

As the West and Russia vie for influence, the continent faces a pivotal moment in its history, with potential ramifications for security, stability, and economic development.

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