Vladimir Putin hosts African leaders in Moscow for third strategic summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed African leaders and government delegates in Moscow on Wednesday at the third Russia-Africa Summit. France 24 and the South China Morning Post reported that the two-day event brought together representatives from 48 countries to discuss trade, security, grain supplies, and arms deals as Moscow aims to expand its footprint in Africa. [1][5][6]

In his opening remarks, Vladimir Putin told delegates that Russia is their best partner. According to France 24 and the South China Morning Post, he accused Western powers of acting in a colonial manner by exploiting the continent's natural resources and using debt burdens to impede African development. [1][5]

The diplomatic outreach follows a wider push by Moscow to build global support after its invasion of Ukraine. Deutsche Welle reported that Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has stepped up visits to the continent, with the Russian foreign ministry framing the initiative as a historic return to the region. [3][13]

Education also remains a core element of bilateral ties. Al Jazeera reported that students gathered at Moscow's Patrice Lumumba Peoples' Friendship University on the eve of the summit, where campus facilities serve as a hub for African languages and cultural exchanges. [2]