The withdrawal of French troops from the Ivory Coast does not strengthen Russia’s influence
Russian propaganda portrays the withdrawal of French troops from the Ivory Coast and Senegal as a «humiliation for France» and evidence of Moscow’s expanding influence across Africa.
In reality, the upcoming withdrawal of 600 French troops from the Ivory Coast and 350 from Senegal does not automatically signal an increase in Russian influence. It is more likely that other players, such as China, which has long been cultivating partnerships with African nations, and potentially India, seeking to expand its regional clout, will attempt to capitalise on the situation.
While Russia’s presence in Africa persists through the Wagner Group, its ability to expand influence is limited — not only by its ongoing war against Ukraine but also by the growing tendency among African states to select the most advantageous partnerships.
