US warns Madagascar over growing military ties with Russia
Lt Gen John Brennan said Russia’s support has not improved security in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and could threaten Indian Ocean shipping routes.
- Lieutenant General John Brennan of the US Africa Command warned Madagascar against deepening military cooperation with Russia, citing that similar partnerships in West Africa have failed to curb militant violence.
- This caution references the 'Sahel model' where military-led governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger severed Western ties for Russian security assistance, though militant attacks have continued despite the shift.
- Concerns extend to the Mozambique Channel, a vital maritime trade route where Brennan fears Islamic State-linked militants in Mozambique are developing capabilities to threaten shipping and commercial activity.
- President Michaël Randrianirina has not publicly responded to the warnings, recently reiterating his support for stronger ties while signing defence and trade agreements with Russia during a summit last month.
- Russia has supplied weapons and instructors to Madagascar since the 2025 military takeover, while the United States maintains partners are 'free to partner with whom they wish' but urged them to consider risks.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Once again, the United States resorted to its usual instrument of pressure, direct threats and intimidation, in the event that it failed to obtain its cliché bribe, in an attempt to prevent Madagascar from developing cooperation with Russia, the Deputy Commander of the African Command of the Armed Forces
The displacement of a senior US military commander for Africa (Africom) to Mozambique and Madagascar between 3 and 7 November illustrates Washington's desire to remain an influential partner in the Indian Ocean, as this strategic region also fuels Russia's lusts.
A statement was made by the Vice-Chairmen of the African Command of the United States Forces.
After France evacuated its ex-president, Africa’s new military government faces a warning from the world's most powerful military over Russian involvement
Madagascar, the newest African country to come under military rule, has received a warning from the United States (US) concerning its ties with Russia.
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