Russia has managed to establish itself on the African continent over the past decade, even expelling French and American forces from parts of the Sahel.
This installation was driven by the Kremlin following the annexation of Crimea and the Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine in 2014.
The Russian strategy started in 2017 in Sudan and the Central African Republic and continued in Sahel countries from 2020.
The Russian strategy is mainly based on fostering postcolonial resentment against the West and the use of Wagner militia mercenaries in the security sphere.
After a fallout between Vladimir Putin and Evgueni Prigojine, the head of Wagner, Russia reorganized its military action in Africa.
The French and American forces, which had been deployed in the Sahel, were expelled by the new juntas in power.
African governments under Russian influence believe they have regained their sovereignty, while Russia takes advantage of the situation to establish itself as a weapons supplier and obtain mining contracts.
Conclusion: In conclusion, Russia's influence in Africa has significantly grown over the past decade, successfully displacing Western forces, fostering postcolonial resentment, and solidifying its presence in African economy and security.