Business model: Russia protects autocratic presidents and military juntas in Africa

Russian military forces have been playing a key role in protecting authoritarian leaders and military juntas in African nations, according to reports from multiple sources. A failed coup attempt in Niger in early September 2026 highlighted this strategy, with Russian troops reportedly assisting local security forces in quelling the unrest. The incident underscores a broader pattern of Moscow’s growing influence in the continent, particularly among regimes facing internal threats. The coup attempt unfolded in the capital, Niamey, on the morning of September 3, 2026, when explosions and gunfire were heard near the presidential palace and Air Base 101, which hosts both Russian and Italian military units. Within hours, authorities declared the attempted takeover unsuccessful, with state television showing captured insurgents being detained by the president’s guards. Russian officials quickly asserted their involvement, claiming that local security forces had repelled the attack with support from members of the Russia’s Africa Corps, a unit under the Ministry of Defense. The situation was described as once again under control of General Abdourahamane Tiani, who leads the “legitimate authorities.” This case reflects a shift in Russia’s approach to its African engagements. While military operations against Islamist groups in the Sahel remain central to its public narrative, recent developments suggest that Moscow is increasingly leveraging its presence to safeguard autocratic rulers and military-led governments facing internal challenges. In Niger, President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a 2023 coup led by Tiani, marking a dramatic change in power. Since then, Niger has distanced itself from Western allies and strengthened ties with Russia, partly to counter domestic instability and ensure continued support. Moscow has since deployed small contingents of troops to several countries to bolster the protection of ruling elites. These deployments often involve around 100 to 200 soldiers, representing a manageable investment that yields political leverage. This strategy is evident in Equatorial Guinea, where up to 200 Russian military personnel have been stationed in Malabo and Bata since 2024. They train local forces and provide security for the presidency, especially for Vice President Teodorín Obiang, son of long-standing leader Teodoro Obiang. Similarly, in Madagascar, Russia swiftly responded to a military coup in December 2025 by sending a military plane carrying approximately 40 soldiers and 43 crates of weapons, including drones for the president’s guard. Reports from Le Monde indicate that specialized units and bodyguards are now being trained by Russian forces, with some involvement in the personal protection of junta chief Michaël Randrianirina. This trend is also visible in Burkina Faso, where Russia’s protective role became apparent in early 2024. Around 100 Russian troops arrived in Ouagadougou, tasked with training local soldiers and securing the leadership of junta head Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in 2022. Since then, Burkinabe authorities have repeatedly warned of alleged plots against the regime, suggesting ongoing concerns over internal dissent within the armed forces. While the exact number of such deployments remains unclear, the pattern suggests that Russia is using its military presence not just for combat roles but also as a tool to stabilize regimes and deter internal threats. This dual function, combating terrorism and ensuring political stability, has become a cornerstone of Moscow’s strategy in Africa. As the continent continues to experience political upheaval, Russia’s role appears to be expanding, offering a form of security and loyalty that other powers may struggle to match.