Putin Backs Madagascar’s Interim Leader

Vladimir Putin met Madagascar’s interim leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, at the Kremlin on Thursday, signaling Russia’s continued push to expand its influence across Africa.

Randrianirina, who has been serving as interim president since October after the former leader fled the country following mass demonstrations, traveled to Moscow just weeks after Russia dispatched military equipment to the island nation.

During the meeting, Putin described Madagascar as an “important partner” for Russia in Africa and highlighted several areas of potential cooperation, including agriculture, geological exploration, energy, medicine, healthcare, and education.

“We have many interesting areas of cooperation,” Putin said, adding that Russia is ready to strengthen ties in humanitarian and other sectors.

Russia has been intensifying its engagement across Africa in recent years, where it competes with European powers, particularly France, for political and economic influence. Russian-linked paramilitary forces, including the Wagner Group, have been active in parts of the continent.

Facing sweeping Western sanctions since the launch of its military offensive in Ukraine in 2022, Russia has increasingly pivoted toward Asia and the Global South to expand trade and diplomatic partnerships.

Putin also extended condolences to Randrianirina following a recent cyclone that struck Madagascar, killing at least 40 people earlier this month.

The Moscow visit marks one of Randrianirina’s first major international trips since assuming interim leadership.