Russia's African reach will be limited despite summit

Significance

This second Russia-Africa Summit secured continent-wide representation. Among the highlights were promises by Russian President Vladimir Putin to write off some USD23bn in African debt and deliver free grain shipments to selected countries. Despite his ostensible exile, head of the Wagner Group mercenary organisation Yevgeny Prigozhin was also present at the margins of the meeting.

Impacts

• Wagner Group expansion opportunities offered by the Niger coup may be counterbalanced by Russian fears of alienating West African partners.
• Russia may seek to expand potential arms markets on the continent.
• The Wagner Group will likely face intensified pressure from Western countries through additional targeted sanctions.