United States Warns Madagascar Over Growing Security Ties With Russia

ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR – The United States has warned Madagascar against deepening its military and security cooperation with Russia, raising concerns over Moscow's expanding influence in Africa and the potential consequences for regional security.

The warning was issued by Lieutenant General John Brennan, Deputy Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), who cautioned that Russia's growing military partnerships with African governments could introduce further instability, particularly in strategically important regions.

Speaking during a media briefing on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, Brennan expressed concern that Russia could extend its security approach, which has gained ground in parts of West Africa, into Madagascar and neighbouring Mozambique.

Washington's concerns come as Madagascar's military-led government continues to strengthen relations with Moscow following the country's military takeover in 2025.

US Raises Concerns Over Russia's Military Influence

Brennan pointed to the experiences of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, where military-led governments have turned to Russia for security assistance after distancing themselves from traditional Western military partners.

The three countries have increasingly relied on Russian military support in their campaigns against jihadist groups and other armed insurgents.

However, militant attacks have continued despite the change in security partnerships, raising questions about the effectiveness of Russia-backed military operations.

Brennan warned against extending what he described as the "Sahel model" to other parts of Africa, arguing that similar arrangements could create additional security challenges.

He also suggested that Moscow's involvement in African countries could carry broader political and economic implications beyond military cooperation.

Madagascar Deepens Relations With Moscow

Russia has expanded its engagement with Madagascar since the military seized power in 2025, providing weapons and military instructors as the country's new leadership seeks to establish international partnerships.

President Michael Randrianirina has pursued closer relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, including a visit to Moscow in February 2026.

The visit marked the first official trip to Russia by a Malagasy leader in nearly five decades.

More recently, the two countries signed cooperation agreements covering defence, trade and tourism during the Russia-Africa summit.

The growing relationship reflects Madagascar's efforts to diversify its international partnerships while strengthening its military and economic cooperation.

However, the developments have attracted increased attention from Western governments concerned about Russia's expanding strategic presence across the African continent.

Strategic Importance of the Mozambique Channel

Beyond the political competition between Washington and Moscow, the United States has highlighted the strategic importance of the Mozambique Channel, which separates Madagascar from mainland Africa.

The waterway is a significant international maritime corridor connecting shipping routes in the Indian Ocean and supporting regional and global trade.

Brennan warned that increasing insecurity in the region could threaten commercial shipping, particularly as militant groups operating in northern Mozambique develop greater maritime capabilities.

He specifically raised concerns about Islamic State-linked militants in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province and the possibility that their activities could extend beyond land-based operations.

Washington considers maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean essential to protecting international trade, energy infrastructure and regional stability.

Washington Says African Countries Can Choose Their Partners

Despite its warning, the United States acknowledged that African governments have the sovereign right to determine their international security partnerships.

Brennan said American partners were free to cooperate with whichever countries they considered appropriate but urged them to understand the potential consequences of their decisions.

His comments underline the growing geopolitical competition between Western powers and Russia for diplomatic, economic and military influence across Africa.

Russia has increasingly positioned itself as an alternative security partner for governments seeking to reduce dependence on traditional Western allies.

What This Means for Africa

The developments in Madagascar highlight the broader geopolitical contest unfolding across Africa, where governments are increasingly balancing relationships with major international powers.

For African countries, partnerships with Russia, the United States, China and European nations present opportunities for investment, military assistance and diplomatic cooperation.

However, analysts continue to debate whether foreign military partnerships can deliver sustainable security improvements without creating new political and economic dependencies.

Madagascar's strategic position in the Indian Ocean makes its foreign policy decisions particularly significant, especially as maritime security and competition over regional influence continue to intensify.

The Road Ahead

Madagascar has not publicly responded to Washington's latest warning, leaving questions about whether the government intends to expand its military cooperation with Russia or pursue a more balanced approach to international partnerships.

The situation also raises questions about the future of US-Madagascar relations and Washington's broader strategy towards countries strengthening security ties with Moscow.

As geopolitical competition intensifies, Madagascar faces the challenge of protecting its national interests while maintaining regional stability and preserving its sovereignty.