Russian Influence in Africa

Putin to African Leaders: “Russia Is Your Best Partner”

Twenty-two African leaders are currently in Moscow for a summit on trade and security.

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Western nations of exploiting the continent’s resources and hindering positive development, Reuters reports. Putin also stated that Russia is Africa’s “best partner.”

“The era when the destinies of entire continents were determined by a small number of countries is coming to an irreversible end,” he said.

Moscow has long sought to expand its political, economic, and military influence in Africa, writes Africa News. This summit is the third of its kind.

AU Chairperson Positive: “We Want to Be Involved”

Russia stands ready to share expertise that could accelerate digitalization and create new jobs in African nations. This was stated by President Vladimir Putin during the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, according to Reuters.

Several African leaders view Putin’s promises—and the prospect of closer cooperation with Russia—positively, reports Africa News.

Évariste Ndayishimiye, Chairperson of the African Union and President of Burundi, says that Africa is seeking partners who can strengthen the capacity of its nations to generate their own prosperity.

“We want to be involved in the entire value chain—from production to marketing—so that the revenue benefits our populations more,” says Ndayishimiye.

SpaceX’s path to the stock market
Putin: “Elon Musk is a true genius”

At a Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin revealed that he is in close contact with Elon Musk, the BBC reports.

During the meeting—attended by a number of African heads of state—Putin expressed his admiration for Musk, a major shareholder in SpaceX.

“He is a genius, a true genius,” he said, according to the broadcaster.

SpaceX is the company behind the Starlink satellite program. Discussions at the meeting also touched upon Russia’s equivalent, Rassvet.

Starlink did not respond when asked by the BBC for a comment on the statement.