Russian FM Sergey Lavrov Begins Africa Tour with High-Level Talks in Ethiopia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has begun his latest African tour with a visit to Ethiopia, where he held talks with senior African Union officials and reaffirmed Moscow’s support for greater African influence in global decision-making.

Lavrov meets African Union leadership

Lavrov arrived in Addis Ababa on Tuesday and met with African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.

During the meeting, the Russian foreign minister voiced support for increasing Africa’s role in international institutions, particularly within the United Nations Security Council.

“We fully support what you said regarding the significant enhancement of Africa’s role in the global decision-making system,” Lavrov said.

He added that the UN Security Council should be reformed to include greater representation from Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Russia criticises former colonial powers

Lavrov also argued that former colonial powers have continued to benefit from Africa’s vast natural resources long after the end of colonial rule.

The comments align with Russia’s long-standing efforts to position itself as a partner to African nations by criticising Western influence and advocating for a more multipolar world order.

Moscow has increasingly sought to strengthen diplomatic, economic and security ties across Africa in recent years.

Warning over European military build-up

Speaking during his visit, Lavrov also commented on Europe’s plans to increase military spending and defence production amid growing tensions between Russia and Western nations.

He warned that some countries could eventually move towards direct conflict with Russia.

“For now, they claim they are not at war with us. Well, that is disingenuous,” Lavrov said.

His remarks come as relations between Moscow and several Western countries remain strained due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and increased military support for Kyiv.

Nuclear cooperation on the agenda

According to Russia’s state news agency, one of the key issues expected to be discussed during Lavrov’s visit is the proposed construction of a large-scale nuclear power plant in Ethiopia.

The project would further deepen cooperation between Moscow and Addis Ababa and could become one of Russia’s most significant energy investments on the African continent.

Africa remains key to Russia’s foreign policy

Russia has steadily expanded its presence in Africa through trade agreements, energy projects, security partnerships and diplomatic engagement.

Lavrov has made several trips across the continent in recent years as Moscow seeks to strengthen alliances and increase its influence in Africa amid growing geopolitical competition with Western nations and China.

Russian officials have not yet announced which other African countries Lavrov will visit during his current tour.