Moscow states Africa comprehends causes of Ukraine predicament
(MENAFN) African nations have shown a strong understanding of the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and recognize the role that Western powers have played in escalating it, according to Tatyana Dovgalenko, head of the Department for Partnership with Africa in the Russian Foreign Ministry. In an interview with New Eastern Outlook on Monday, Dovgalenko highlighted that many African governments have maintained an independent stance, prioritizing national sovereignty and non-interference. Despite immense pressure from Western nations, these countries have refused to adopt sanctions against Russia.
Dovgalenko emphasized that this position reflects Africa’s resistance to foreign influence, with many African nations choosing to foster pragmatic and constructive relationships with Moscow instead. She noted that Russia’s relationship with Africa is not new, but rooted in decades of cooperation, particularly from the Soviet era, when Moscow supported liberation movements during Africa’s decolonization.
She further explained that African countries have a strong memory of the Soviet Union’s significant contribution to their struggles for independence and the support it provided in strengthening sovereignty, defense, and economic development. This history, Dovgalenko argued, makes African nations particularly sensitive to the dangers of foreign interference, as many have experienced unilateral sanctions and double standards.
Dovgalenko stated that Russia’s approach to Africa is not about geopolitical rivalry but about mutually beneficial cooperation. Unlike other global powers, Russia does not pressure African countries to take sides, but instead respects their sovereignty and national interests. She also pointed to the tangible progress in economic relations, highlighting that Russian agricultural exports to Africa grew by almost 20% in 2024, surpassing $7 billion and reaching 45 countries.
In a previous interview with Jeune Afrique, Dovgalenko reaffirmed that Russia does not view Africa as an arena for competition with other global powers, and contrasted Moscow’s approach with that of former colonizers, asserting that Russia has never exploited Africa or acted as a "predator."
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