Russia positioned itself as a climate ally to African nations during the Africa summit in Sochi, launching a reforestation campaign as part of broader efforts to reshape its global image. The initiative coincided with discussions on energy, infrastructure, and arms deals, underscoring the dual focus of Moscow's diplomatic strategy.
Russian Minister for Natural Resources Dmitry Kobylkin led African leaders in planting trees under the 'Save the Forest Campaign,' which aims to plant 30 million trees. Participants included Equatorial Guinea's Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, Mauritius' Barlen Vyapoory, Ghana's Nana Akufo-Addo, and Kenya's Monica Juma, who emphasized environmental cooperation.
Russia's recent ratification of the 2015 Paris Agreement, after initially withholding support, marked a strategic shift. The move came amid U.S. withdrawal from the treaty and aims to bolster Moscow's influence on the continent, where climate change has exacerbated droughts and floods. However, the summit also highlighted Russia's longstanding arms trade with Africa, valued at $25 billion annually, which remains a key diplomatic lever.
Central African President Faustin-Archange Touadera sought expanded military aid from Putin, citing the need for heavy weapons to combat rebel groups. Russia has provided training and security support to Bangui but has not fulfilled promises of full-scale military assistance. In exchange, Russian firms gained mining concessions in gold and diamonds.
Despite environmental rhetoric, tensions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam persisted. Egypt's Fattah al-Sisi accepted a U.S.-led mediation offer, sidelining Russia's role in the Nile water dispute. Meanwhile, Putin pledged to double Russia-Africa trade to $80 billion within five years, balancing green diplomacy with economic and security interests.
