## Russia Strengthens Its Naval Presence in West Africa
According to a new bilateral cooperation agreement signed on November 19 in Moscow during President Faure Gnassingbé's official visit, Russia and Togo agreed to grant mutual access to their ports and naval facilities. The deal marks a significant expansion of Russia's maritime influence along the West African coast, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
### Strategic Implications and Regional Influence
The agreement allows Russian naval vessels to dock, refuel, and conduct maintenance in Togolese ports. In return, Togo will benefit from technical assistance, joint training programs, and potential military equipment supplies. This partnership is part of Russia's broader effort to enhance its presence in Africa, particularly in maritime security and counter-piracy operations.
Experts note that this move consolidates Moscow’s growing influence in the region, where Western powers such as France and the United States have traditionally maintained a strong presence. Russian officials have framed the partnership as a step toward "ensuring regional stability" and "strengthening cooperation in maritime defense."
### Context of Expanding Partnerships
Togo joins a growing list of African nations deepening ties with Russia amid increasing geopolitical competition. Similar accords have been pursued with countries including Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Moscow’s engagement often combines military cooperation, economic investments, and political support for local governments seeking alternatives to Western partners.
### Reactions and Analysis
Observers highlight that the Gulf of Guinea is a vital maritime corridor for global trade and energy exports, but also one of the most piracy-prone areas in the world. For Russia, establishing a naval foothold here reinforces both its strategic projection and its narrative as a global power countering Western influence.
> “This agreement reflects a pragmatic partnership aimed at securing the Gulf of Guinea and protecting trade routes,” said a Togolese defense source quoted by local media.
The deal has raised eyebrows among Western diplomats, who view it as another step in Russia’s systematic expansion of security arrangements across the African continent.
***
**Author’s summary:** Russia and Togo’s new naval cooperation deal gives Moscow operational access to the Gulf of Guinea, expanding its West African influence through strategic and defense collaboration.
more
Le Monde — 2025-11-26