Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, confirmed ongoing discussions with Sudan about a potential Russian base on the Red Sea but stated no concrete agreement has been reached.
“Communication continues, but there are no firm agreements at this time, even between the defense ministries, to my knowledge,” said Bogdanov, who also serves as the special presidential envoy for the Middle East and Africa.
In 2019, Russia and Sudan agreed to build a logistical center in Port Sudan, but the project was delayed after a regime change in Sudan.
Recently, pro-military Sudanese commentators urged Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to finalize the naval base deal without additional conditions.
Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Siraj, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the base, stating in a June 1 interview with Sputnik that a formal agreement for a logistical support center had already been reached.
Bogdanov expressed concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the need for dialogue to end the violence and maintain the country’s integrity. He affirmed Russia’s support for the Jeddah negotiations and Saudi Arabia’s mediation efforts, stating Russia’s readiness to facilitate talks.