Putin Faces Setback as Sudan and Libya Push Back Against Russian Military Presence

Vladimir Putin faces growing resistance in Africa as Sudan and Libya turn down Russian military expansion requests. Sudan rejected a naval base proposal while Libya’s Prime Minister condemned foreign military incursions. These moves threaten Russian strategic interests following the destabilization of Syria and highlight shifting political allegiances in the region.

Recent developments indicate a significant setback for Vladimir Putin’s influence in Africa, as key allies, Sudan and Libya, express opposition to further Russian military presence. Initially, Sudan denied Russia’s request to establish a naval base on the Red Sea coast, despite the offer of advanced military equipment. Similarly, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh denounced any attempts by Russia to expand its military operations within Libya, emphasizing that foreign intervention must come under formal agreements and with the approval of the Libyan people. Both countries’ actions highlight a growing pushback against Russia’s military ambitions in the region, following the destabilization of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, which has potentially undermined Russia’s strategic foothold within Africa.

Historically, Russia has laid extensive plans to strengthen its presence in Africa, including the establishment of a naval base in Sudan since 2019. Both Sudan and Libya have been critical to Russia’s aspirations in the region, particularly following the loss of stability in Syria and its naval assets there. Following the collapse of al-Assad’s regime, the Kremlin needs alliances in Africa for logistical support and a continued military footprint. However, internal political dynamics within these countries are shifting away from reliance on Russian military aid, complicating these plans considerably.

In summary, the rejection of Russian military requests by Sudan and Libya represents a double blow to Moscow, signalling a potential decline in its influence across Africa. The developments underscore a crucial moment for Russia as it attempts to redefine its strategy in response to changing regional dynamics and to maintain its military presence without foreign military intervention. The outcomes of these tensions may fundamentally reshape Russia’s strategic depth in African geopolitics.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com