The United States has warned Madagascar about the risks of expanding military cooperation with Russia. Washington says similar partnerships in parts of Africa have failed to deliver lasting security improvements.
According to Africanews, citing AFP, a senior US military official raised concerns about Russia’s growing influence in Madagascar and other African countries.
The warning comes as Madagascar’s military-led government strengthens relations with Moscow.
US raises concerns over Russian influence
Lieutenant General John Brennan, deputy commander of US Africa Command (AFRICOM), warned against adopting Russia’s security approach in the Sahel.
He said Washington fears Moscow could expand its existing model of military cooperation to other parts of Africa.
Brennan identified Madagascar and Mozambique as strategically important countries.
He also highlighted the Mozambique Channel, a major shipping route between the two nations.
The waterway plays an important role in international trade. Its strategic value has increased as conflict in the Middle East affects global shipping routes.
Brennan said countries remain free to choose their security partners. However, he urged them to consider the possible risks of closer military cooperation with Russia.
Madagascar strengthens relations with Moscow
Madagascar has expanded its relationship with Russia since the military took power in 2025.
According to Africanews, Moscow has supplied weapons and military instructors linked to its Africa Corps.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who leads Madagascar’s military government, also visited Moscow in October 2026.
During the visit, he met Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The meeting reflected growing diplomatic and security cooperation between the two countries.
However, the available reporting does not establish the full terms of their military agreements.
Washington points to security challenges in Sahel
Brennan compared Madagascar’s developing relationship with Russia to Moscow’s partnerships with Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.
All three countries have military-led governments and have strengthened security cooperation with Russia.
They have also reduced cooperation with several Western partners while confronting armed groups.
Brennan argued that Russian security assistance has produced limited results in parts of the Sahel and East Africa.
He also accused Moscow of seeking influence over natural resources and undermining national sovereignty.
However, these statements represent the US official’s assessment. The report did not include a response from Russian or Malagasy authorities to his latest remarks.
Regional security cooperation draws attention
Madagascar’s growing ties with Moscow come as international powers compete for diplomatic and security partnerships across Africa.
The country’s location near the Mozambique Channel adds to its strategic importance.
Meanwhile, governments across the continent continue to make different choices about foreign military cooperation.
For Madagascar, the debate now centres on how closer relations with Russia could affect its security priorities and international partnerships.
The United States has expressed its concerns, but Madagascar’s government retains responsibility for deciding its foreign policy and security arrangements.