Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting the second Africa-Russia Summit in St. Petersburg, aiming to strengthen Moscow’s position on the continent. The summit will address food security, particularly after Russia’s recent decision to withdraw from an international grain deal, impacting Africa’s concerns about rising food prices.
The Black Sea Grain Initiative, previously brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, had helped alleviate food crises by facilitating the safe passage of agricultural goods through Ukraine’s ports despite the ongoing war with Russia. However, Russia’s withdrawal from the agreement resulted in strikes on Ukrainian port infrastructure and grain depots.
At the summit, discussions will also cover issues related to food and fertilizers, with bilateral meetings between Putin and African leaders on the agenda. However, the event’s attendance will be lower than the previous summit, with Russia attributing it to “interference” from the West. The participants are expected to sign cultural, humanitarian, and technological deals, with a focus on Russia’s assistance in supporting Africa’s national development and ensuring fair access to essential resources.
Moreover, the recent mutiny by the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary force, has raised questions about Russia’s influence in Africa. The group’s leaders have suggested continued operations in certain African regions, but uncertainties remain regarding its status.
African leaders attending the summit are likely to be more assertive in their diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the war in Ukraine, recognizing its potential ramifications on the African continent.
African nations are increasingly seeking diversified economic and political relationships to maximize strategic benefits and avoid becoming entangled in proxy wars. The summit reflects Russia’s geopolitical ambitions in Africa, but actual investments and trade volumes between Russia and African countries remain relatively low.
