politics
February 19, 2026
Russia helping to overhaul Sahel state’s defense
Russian instructors have helped Burkina Faso reclaim 74% of territory from militants, the African country’s foreign minister has said
TL;DR
- Russian instructors have significantly transformed Burkina Faso’s armed forces, enabling offensive operations against militants.
- Over 74% of Burkina Faso's territory previously under militant control has been reclaimed.
- Cooperation with Russia has strengthened the defense and security apparatus of the Alliance of Sahel States.
- Burkina Faso and Russia signed a package of agreements establishing a new legal framework for bilateral ties.
- Agreements were signed for an intergovernmental commission, higher education, and research.
- Burkina Faso views French attempts to destabilize the region as a continuation of neo-colonialist policy.
- Burkina Faso is open to cooperation with all partners based on equality and respect.
- Cooperation with Russia's Rosatom on civil nuclear energy is ongoing, with students already training in Russia.