Russia’s New Role in Africa – Reach and Limits of Russia’s Re-Emergence

Babić, Danilo (2022) Russia’s New Role in Africa – Reach and Limits of Russia’s Re-Emergence. The Review of International Affairs, LXXIII (1184). pp. 49-70. ISSN 0543-3657

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Abstract

This paper aims to show the growing Russian interest in the development perspectives of African countries. Russia decided to join the new scramble for Africa alongside other international actors, such as China, India, etc. However, due to its internal limitations, Russia’s ability to project its influence in Africa is limited. Therefore, the proposed hypothesis in this paper is that Russia cannot play a leadership role in Africa, but can represent a kind of strategic alternative for African countries. The paper identifies four dimensions of the relationship between Russia and African countries: political, economic, military, and soft power. Furthermore, four goals of Russian policy towards Africa are determined: projecting power on the global stage; accessing raw materials and natural resources; arms exports and security; supporting energy capacities; and infrastructure development in Africa through Russian companies. The paper also addresses African interests in cooperation with Russia. Lastly, Russia’s strategy in Africa has been represented through a SWOT analysis to determine its strengths and weaknesses.

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