Is Russia extending its reach in Africa? | Sergey Lavrov

Sergey Lavrov is visiting Mali this week for the first official visit by a Russian foreign minister to the West African country.

Mali’s ruling generals have reached out to Moscow to help them fight armed groups. Fighters from Wagner Corporation replaced the army from the former colonial rule of France.

Wagner is a private military organization run by an ally of President Vladimir Putin and currently active in several African countries.

So is Moscow expanding its reach in Africa at the expense of Western powers?

Indicator: Adrian Finighan

Guest:

Sergei Markov – director, Institute of Political Studies

Ovigwe Eguegu – policy analyst, Africa-focused Development Regeneration consulting firm

Gesine Weber – colleague, German Marshall Fund of the US