US WARNS MADAGASCAR OVER GROWING MILITARY TIES WITH RUSSIA
The United States has warned Madagascar against adopting what it calls the Russian-backed “Sahel model” of military cooperation, claiming it could lead to greater instability across Africa.
US Africa Command Deputy Chief, Lieutenant General John Brennan, expressed concern over Russia’s expanding military presence in Madagascar, where Moscow has supplied weapons and military instructors since the 2025 military takeover.
He specifically warned against extending this model to Madagascar and Mozambique, citing their strategic importance along major international shipping routes.
Russia and Madagascar recently signed several cooperation agreements covering defence, trade and tourism.
Madagascar’s President, Michaël Randrianirina, has expressed support for stronger Russia-Africa relations.
Washington is increasingly concerned about Russia’s expanding military partnerships across Africa.