Putin says Russia offers alternative to Western neo-colonialism at Africa summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed African leaders at the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, emphasizing that Russia does not engage in neo-colonial exploitation of the continent, according to Al Jazeera English. He criticized Western countries for attempts to keep African nations in debt and slow their development.

Putin highlighted that Africa is becoming a key player in the global economy and politics but faces resistance from countries unwilling to accept a multipolar world, France 24 reported. He presented Russia as a natural ally for African countries against the West.

The summit included delegations from 48 African countries, with 22 heads of state attending. Putin said Russia was ready to expand shipments of agricultural products to Africa, noting 13 million metric tonnes had been supplied in the first nine months of the year, Al Jazeera noted.

The event also covered topics such as trade, security, arms deals, and grain supplies. Russia's efforts to increase its political, economic, and military influence in Africa were described by France 24 as part of a strategic push to counterbalance Western pressure amid Russia's war in Ukraine.

Putin's remarks came amid ongoing regional security challenges in North Africa and disruptions to grain and fertilizer exports due to conflicts involving Russia, Ukraine, the United States, Israel, and Iran, Al Jazeera reported.