‘74% of Territory Recovered’: How Russia Is Reshaping Burkina Faso’s Fight Against Militants

In a development that underscores the shifting geopolitical sands of West Africa, Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore has credited the country’s military resurgence against militants to its strategic alliance with Russia.

In an exclusive interview with RT following high-level talks in Moscow, Traore revealed that 74% of the nation’s territory, previously under militant control, has been recovered. The turnaround, he said, is attributable to innovative military reforms and the expertise of Russian instructors.

A Formalised Partnership

Traore’s comments followed a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last Thursday, where the two officials formalised relations through a series of new agreements. These include establishing an intergovernmental commission to coordinate joint projects and collaborations in higher education and research.

The partnership, Traore indicated, is not merely transactional but foundational. It is seen as pivotal not only for Burkina Faso but for the broader Alliance of Sahel States (AES) , marking a profound shift in the region’s defence dynamics.

From St. Petersburg to Ouagadougou

The bolstering of Burkina Faso’s military apparatus can be traced to a significant meeting between President Ibrahim Traore and Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg earlier this year. Since that encounter, the relationship has flourished.

Traore described the trajectory of these ties as “steadily strengthening.”

France in the Crosshairs

Addressing recent claims by Russian intelligence that France is attempting to destabilise the Sahel region, Traore expressed dismay, perceiving the assertions as evidence of a lingering neo-colonialist agenda.

Nevertheless, he affirmed that Burkina Faso remains open to partnerships with all nationsprovided such relationships are grounded in equality and mutual respect.

Beyond the Battlefield

The cooperation extends beyond military affairs. During his talks with Lavrov, Traore endorsed the need for Sahel nations to improve collaboration against disinformation campaigns that threaten to obscure their security and economic advancements.

In a nod to future energy needs, Traore confirmed ongoing cooperation with Russia’s Rosatom in the civil nuclear energy sector. Legal frameworks are being prepared, and Burkinabe students are currently receiving training in Russia.

A Promising Future

Traore characterised the relationship with Russia as “promising,” noting that the commitment of both parties to cultivate an exemplary partnership will significantly shape the future of bilateral ties.

For Burkina Faso, the alliance has already yielded tangible results on the battlefield. For Russia, it represents a strategic foothold in a region where Western influenceparticularly Frenchhas been in retreat.

As the Sahel grapples with insurgency, instability, and the legacies of colonialism, the Burkina Faso-Russia model may become a template for other nations seeking new security partners. The 74% figure is more than a statistic; it is a statement of intent.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com