Washington concerned by security ties between Madagascar and Russia
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Ahora EG
Lieutenant General John Brennan expressed concern that Russia could extend to Madagascar its security cooperation model developed in the Sahel. He highlighted the strategic importance of the Mozambique Channel and referred to Russian weapons and instructors supplied to Madagascar, according to Ahora EG.
Lieutenant General John Brennan said that extending the Russian security model seen in the Sahel to Madagascar and Mozambique posed risks for US partners, while highlighting the strategic importance of the Mozambique Channel for international trade, according to Ahora EG.
Brennan cited Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, three countries ruled by military regimes that have turned to Russia to fight jihadist groups. In Madagascar, Moscow has strengthened its cooperation since the army seized power, notably by supplying weapons and instructors from the Russian Africa Corps, according to Ahora EG. Colonel Michael Randrianirina also travelled to Moscow after taking power to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Brennan said US partners remained free to choose their relationships, but that they should assess the risks associated with these closer ties. He said that, in his view, Russia’s "real motives" were to control natural resources, exploit the population and undermine the sovereignty of the countries concerned, according to Ahora EG.
The statement comes after Washington’s warnings about Madagascar’s Russian military ties, published on 11 November. Washington also expressed concern on 11 November about Russian expansion in Mozambique.
