Russia’s First African Naval Base Set to Proceed in Sudan
Sudan has reaffirmed that Russia’s long-delayed plan to establish its first naval base in Africa will move forward. The announcement follows a meeting in Moscow between Sudan’s foreign minister, Ali Youssef Ahmed al-Sharif, and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov. Sharif stated that both countries are in “complete agreement” on the establishment of the base and that “there are no obstacles” to its implementation.
The naval base, situated on Sudan’s Red Sea coast, would place Russia alongside the US and China, both of which operate military installations further south in Djibouti. This strategic waterway connects the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean and facilitates approximately 12% of global trade.
A Long-Delayed Agreement Gains Momentum
Sudan initially proposed hosting a Russian naval facility in 2017 under then-President Omar al-Bashir. A formal agreement was signed in 2020, allowing Russia to station up to four navy vessels, including nuclear-powered ones, for 25 years. The deal was described as purely logistical and defensive, not directed against other nations.
However, progress stalled due to political instability. The 2023 civil war between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) further complicated matters. The Russian-backed Wagner Group supported the RSF, while the Kremlin appeared to maintain ties with Sudan’s army, leading analysts to suggest Moscow was “playing both sides.”
Strengthening Military and Diplomatic Ties
Russia has recently deepened its relationship with Sudan’s army. In April 2023, Russia’s deputy foreign minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, visited Sudan and pledged unrestricted support for its military. Additionally, Russia used its veto power at the UN Security Council to block a resolution calling for a ceasefire, a move condemned by the UK.
With Sudan’s army gaining ground in its conflict with the RSF, military confidence is growing. The United States has imposed sanctions on Sudan’s army leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, for prioritizing warfare over diplomacy. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations warn that Sudan faces one of the world’s worst crises, with widespread displacement and famine concerns.
Russia’s Broader Strategic Interests
This development occurs amid geopolitical shifts affecting Russia’s military footprint. The recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria has cast uncertainty over Russia’s naval base in Tartus, making the Sudanese facility even more crucial for Moscow’s presence in African and Middle Eastern waters.
As Russia finalizes its plans in Sudan, the establishment of this base could reshape regional power dynamics, reinforcing Moscow’s influence in the Red Sea and beyond.
