Ahead of the Russia–Africa summit in Moscow on 28–29 October, NAI Associate Federico Donelli examines Russia's role on the continent, what African governments seek from their relations with Moscow, and the implications for Europe and the Nordic countries.

Despite its relatively limited economic presence, Russia has established significant political and security influence in parts of Africa, particularly through military cooperation and diplomatic partnerships. In a new video interview, Donelli discusses how Moscow has developed these relationships and the limits of its influence.

Donelli emphasises that African governments are not passive participants in geopolitical competition. Many are actively diversifying their international partnerships, seeking greater autonomy and stronger bargaining positions in an increasingly multipolar world. Relations with Russia should therefore also be understood in terms of African countries' own political and economic priorities.

The interview also explores the wider implications of Russia's engagement in Africa. Donelli highlights developments in Libya, the Sahel and Sudan, where Russia's presence intersects with regional security challenges and European strategic interests.

For Nordic policymakers, Donelli argues, understanding these relationships requires looking beyond competition between global powers and paying closer attention to African governments' motivations, interests and room for manoeuvre.