Russian President Vladimir Putin has launched a fresh attempt to expand Moscow’s economic influence in Africa, promising grain, technology and infrastructure partnerships while accusing Western countries of exploiting the continent.
Russian President Vladimir Putin gives a speech during the Russia-Africa economic and humanitarian forum at the Gostiny Dvor conference centre in central Moscow, Russia, October 28, 2026.
Delegations from 48 countries including 22 represented by heads of state are expected to attend the third Russia-Africa summit that opens Wednesday, according to state media.
Putin plans a series of bilateral meetings with visiting leaders and will take part in the summit’s plenary session on Thursday, the Kremlin said.
Vladimir Putin presented Russia as a more equitable partner for Africa than Western countries.
The Russian president addressed 22 African leaders at the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
Putin has launched a fresh attempt to expand Moscow’s economic influence in Africa, promising grain, technology and infrastructure partnerships while accusing Western countries of exploiting the continent.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are among the leaders due in Moscow.
Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye, the current African Union chairman, will co-chair the summit.
Vladimir Putin gives a speech during the Russia-Africa economic and humanitarian forum at the Gostiny Dvor conference centre in central Moscow, Russia, October 28, 2026.
