The visit to Russia by the Burkina Faso leader Ibrahim Traoré between May 8-10, 2025[1] wasn’t just the beginning of the diplomatic phase between the two countries but also the reflection of the newly emerging multipolar geopolitical order in Sahel. The meeting with the Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kremlin brought the alternative cooperation model in areas such as security, economy and culture into action after the rising reactions to the ineffectiveness of France. This visit is one of the peaks of the “Anti West” axis shift that was started in 2023 by Traoré and strictly redefined Burkina Faso’s orientation in foreign policy.
Traoré’s political rise began when he came to power by overthrowing Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba on September 30, 2022; his youth, charismatic stance, and anti-imperialist rhetoric quickly made him one of the most prominent figures in Africa. Claiming that France was ineffective against the jihadist threat, Traoré expelled French troops from the country in February 2023 and stood firm on that decision, turning towards alternative security and development partners. In this context, the visit to Moscow is not only symbolic but also a clear indication of a strategic choice.
The timing of the visit is also noteworthy. Coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory over Nazi Germany, the invitation revealed that Traoré was treated not just as an official guest, but as a leader welcomed with special attention. The escort of Russian warplanes during his arrival and the allocation of a private jet further strengthened public sympathy toward Russia. Such symbolic gestures should be seen not only as elements of protocol but also as part of broader public relations strategies.
The May 10 meeting between Putin and Traoré deepened along four main areas: security, humanitarian aid, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation. Under security, Russia pledged support for Burkina Faso’s fight against jihadist groups, while Traoré requested military training, advisory help, and equipment. Although allegations about the Wagner Group surfaced publicly, the Burkina side denied those links and emphasized preferring cooperation through official channels. This approach also aligns with Russia’s efforts to restructure its operations in Africa in the post-Wagner period.
Humanitarian aid has gained notable importance in terms of food security. Following the 25,000 tons of wheat sent by Russia in 2023, a new shipment planned for 2025 represents a direct benefit for the people of Burkina Faso. In the field of education and cultural diplomacy, doubling scholarships, activities at the Russia House, and language courses stand out as initiatives aimed at creating long-term social impact. Economically, demands for technology transfer in mining and energy sectors have emerged; however, it has been noted that progress in these areas may take time due to Russia’s resource limitations caused by sanctions.
In a historical context, relations between Burkina Faso and Russia date back to the Soviet-Africa solidarity during the Cold War, and they gained momentum after the reopening of the Russian embassy in Ouagadougou in 2023 following a diplomatic break in 1992. Traoré’s remark “Africa is rich, but Africans are poor” at the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit highlighted both post-colonial fractures and the public resonance of anti-imperialist discourse.
The regional context of the visit is just as important as the bilateral ties. The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has recently shown a joint stance against French influence, and Russia is turning this trend into an opportunity. Traoré’s federation proposal with Mali, the invitation extended to Guinea, and the search for defense cooperation within AES point to the emergence of a new Russia-backed bloc in the region. This structure weakens France’s traditional influence in the Sahel and makes it easier for Moscow to carry out its diplomatic moves. In this context, with increasing engagement from actors like Türkiye and China, the Sahel is turning into a zone of multi-centered competition.
Looking ahead, three main scenarios can be outlined. First, with deeper security cooperation, Burkina Faso may become increasingly dependent on Russian military advisors and advanced weapons technology. This could create delicate balances within the country’s sovereignty structure. Second, a rise in economic investments may lead Russian companies to take the lead in sectors like gold and uranium mining. However, the sustainability of this process depends both on the security situation in Burkina Faso and on Russia’s limited access to external resources due to sanctions. Third, if the idea of a Sahel States Federation is realized, a new Eurasia-backed geopolitical axis may emerge; but this structure could face serious long-term challenges due to internal instability and lack of infrastructure.
In this context, it’s clear that the Russia–Burkina Faso rapprochement currently functions as a tool that weakens France’s influence in the short term and strengthens Traoré’s position in domestic politics. However, in the long run, these relations need to be institutionalized and supported by balancing mechanisms. Otherwise, dependency on external powers and crises of internal legitimacy could make Burkina Faso vulnerable to a new form of foreign intervention. Moreover, considering China’s infrastructure investments and Turkey’s strategy to expand its cultural and social influence, Russia’s struggle for influence in the region is likely to evolve into an increasingly multi-dimensional dynamic.
In conclusion, Ibrahim Traoré’s Moscow visit is more than just a diplomatic meeting; it marks the start of a period where the post-colonial order in the Sahel is being challenged and the search for alternative alliances is speeding up. The talks with Putin go beyond military and economic support promises — they reflect an ideological and geopolitical shift. But for this shift to become a lasting axis, it will depend not only on bilateral decisions but also on regional actors’ reactions, internal political balances, and the course of global competition.
[1] “Meeting with President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traore”, Official Internet Resources of the President of Russia, May 10, 2025. en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/76895, (Date of Access: 11.05.2025).
