Ukraine steps up engagement in Africa to counter Russia’s influence in the Sahel

Ukraine is reportedly deepening its presence in Africa,offering military training,humanitarian aid,and diplomatic support to counter Russia’s growing influence,particularly in the Sahel region.

As Moscow-backed mercenaries spread across conflict zones like Mali,Ukraine has launched a strategic push to win allies on the continent and undermine Kremlin-backed operations. Kyiv’s latest initiative includes providing military training to Mauritanian forces,reviving pre-2022 defense ties. Ukrainian Ambassador Maksym Subkh confirmed the plan,warning that Russia’s presence in the Sahel — particularly through the Africa Corps — is “undermining stability” in the region.

Ukraine’s outreach is part of a broader diplomatic surge. Since 2022,Kyiv has opened eight new embassies in Africa,bringing its total to 18,including missions in Mauritania,Côte d’Ivoire,and the Republic of the Congo. In Nouakchott,Ukraine’s new embassy is already providing food assistance to refugees fleeing instability in neighboring Mali. Both Kyiv and Moscow view Africa as a battleground for legitimacy and global influence.

While Russia appeals to African leaders with weapons,security aid,and pragmatic diplomacy,Ukraine is countering with military cooperation and narratives of shared anti-colonial struggle. With tensions rising in the Sahel and Western support for Ukraine wavering,Kyiv’s engagement with Africa marks a strategic shift — transforming the continent into a new front in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine rivalry.