Sudan Approves Russia’s First Naval Base in Africa on the Red Sea

Sudan has given formal approval for Russia to establish its first naval base in Africa, marking a major geopolitical milestone in Moscow’s expanding military presence. The agreement was finalised during talks in Moscow between Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef Ahmed al-Sharif and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, ending years of stalled negotiations over access to Sudan’s coastline.

Strategic Foothold Near Port Sudan

The base will be developed as a logistics support facility near Port Sudan, providing berthing and resupply services for Russian naval vessels. Its location on the Red Sea gives Russia strategic access to one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints—the Red Sea–Suez Canal route, which handles nearly 12% of global trade.
This move positions Russia alongside major international powers with established facilities in the region, notably the United States and China in Djibouti.

Geopolitical and Regional Implications

The agreement is seen as part of Russia’s broader efforts to expand its influence in Africa:

• Strengthening naval reach into the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden
• Increasing presence near Middle Eastern and European sea lanes
• Deepening defence and economic cooperation with African nations

For Sudan, the deal could provide military and financial support amid political turmoil and prolonged internal conflict.

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Exam-Oriented Facts

• Sudan approved Russia’s first African naval base near Port Sudan
• The Red Sea–Suez corridor carries ~12% of global maritime trade
• The deal follows delayed negotiations dating back to 2020
• Russia joins US and China, who already operate bases in the region