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Russia expands strategic influence in Madagascar
An investigation by the NGO INPACT/All Eyes On Wagner (AEOW) and Radio Free Europe reveals that Russia is rapidly expanding its political, economic, and military influence in Madagascar to establish a strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean.
Following a coup in Antananarivo on October 12, 2025, which led to the flight of the sitting president, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina assumed power. Shortly after his investiture, the new administration began a rapid rapprochement with Moscow. On December 20, 2025, a flight carrying 40 personnel led by GRU General Andrey Averyanov, a suspected supervisor of the paramilitary Africa Corps, arrived in the country.
Between December 2025 and April 2026, Madagascar received multiple shipments of military equipment, including helicopters, tanks, trucks, drones, and rifles, often presented as donations. Additionally, authorities confirmed the presence of Africa Corps instructors tasked with training Malagasy military forces.
Entities
Africa Corps · Andrey Averyanov · Madagascar · Michael Randrianirina · Russia
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A coup in Antananarivo on October 12, 2025, caused the sitting president to flee. www.watson.ch
- [● 2 SOURCES] On December 20, 2025, a flight carrying 40 men led by GRU General Andrey Averyanov arrived in Madagascar. www.rfi.fr · www.watson.ch
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Africa Corps instructors have been training Malagasy military personnel. www.rfi.fr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Russia is expanding its political, economic, and military influence in Madagascar. www.rfi.fr · www.watson.ch
- [● 2 SOURCES] Colonel Michaël Randrianirina replaced the former president following the coup. www.rfi.fr · www.watson.ch
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Shipments of helicopters, tanks, trucks, drones, and rifles were delivered to Madagascar between December 2025 and April 2026. www.rfi.fr