Russia and BRICS strengthen influence in Southern Africa

Russia maintains significant historical and contemporary influence in Southern Africa, often operating through the BRICS framework and its partnership with South Africa. Historical ties are rooted in the support provided by the Soviet Union during various independence movements, such as the support for the MPLA in Angola in 1975 and the Marxist-Leninist orientation of Mozambique following its emancipation from Portugal.

In the current geopolitical landscape, South Africa serves as a primary relational axis for Moscow in the region. Cooperation has expanded into strategic sectors, including energy and nuclear technology. While maintaining these ties, South Africa pursues a policy of strategic autonomy, managing simultaneous relations with various global actors including Russia, China, and the United States.