Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Meets Sudan's Army Chief Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov met with Sudan's army commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in Port Sudan on Monday, expressing support for the military amid the ongoing conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Bogdanov conveyed Russia's solidarity with the Sudanese government and people, discussing potential economic, commercial, and military cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting comes as Sudan faces a power struggle between the military, led by al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The year-long war has led to thousands of casualties and displaced millions of people. Bogdanov's visit and expression of support for al-Burhan's military faction suggest Russia's involvement in the Sudanese conflict and its efforts to maintain influence in the region.

During the meeting, Bogdanov expressed support for "the existing legitimacy in the country represented by the Sovereign Council", which is headed by al-Burhan. The Russian deputy foreign minister's visit signaled Moscow's "solidarity with the Sudanese government and people", according to a statement from the Sudanese military.

Russia has previously shown interest in establishing a naval base on Sudan's Red Sea coast and recently began deliveries of diesel to Sudan. However, there has been uncertainty around Russia's allegiances in Sudan due to its ties with RSF commander Hemedti, who visited Moscow before Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Bogdanov's visit follows a recent meeting between Sudan's intelligence chief and Russian officials, where they discussed Sudan's military and political situation. The proposed Russian naval base in Port Sudan was tentatively approved by Sudan's military leadership, but the deal awaits ratification by a civilian government and parliament, which Sudan currently lacks.

The meeting between Bogdanov and al-Burhan highlighted the potential for expanding cooperation between Russia and Sudan, including in the economic, commercial, and training sectors. As the conflict continues, the international community is closely monitoring the situation and the involvement of external actors like Russia in the Sudanese power struggle.

Key Takeaways

• Russian deputy FM Bogdanov met Sudan's army chief al-Burhan, expressed support.
• Russia seeks to maintain influence in Sudan amid military-RSF power struggle.
• Bogdanov conveyed Russia's solidarity with Sudanese govt, discussed cooperation.
• Russia interested in establishing naval base in Sudan, began diesel deliveries.
• Russia's involvement highlights its strategic interests in the region.