US warns Madagascar over growing military ties with Russia
Summary
The U.S. warned Madagascar against expanding military ties with Russia, arguing that similar partnerships in military-led Sahel countries have not stopped militant attacks. U.S. Africa Command also raised concerns about security and shipping in the Mozambique Channel as Russia and Madagascar deepen cooperation.Key Facts
- U.S. Africa Command deputy head Lt. Gen. John Brennan said Madagascar’s Indian Ocean location is important to global trade.
- Madagascar’s military took power in 2025, and Russia has since supplied weapons and military instructors.
- Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger turned to Russia for military support after ending ties with Western partners.
- Militant attacks have continued in the three Sahel countries despite their closer military ties with Russia.
- Brennan warned that Islamist State-linked militants in northern Mozambique and other actors could threaten maritime activity in the Mozambique Channel.
- At a Russia-Africa summit last month, Madagascar and Russia signed cooperation agreements covering defence, tourism and trade.
- Madagascar’s President Michaël Randrianirina visited Moscow in February, a few months after taking power.
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