The United States has warned Madagascar against deepening military ties with Russia, saying similar partnerships with military-led governments in West Africa have failed to improve security.
Lt Gen John Brennan, deputy head of US Africa Command, made the remarks in an online briefing, the BBC reported. Madagascar has not publicly responded.
What did the US say about Madagascar and Russia?
General Brennan said Madagascar’s position in the Indian Ocean makes it important to global trade, and warned against what he called the “Sahel model”. Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, all under military rule, have cut ties with Western partners and turned to Russia against jihadist groups, yet militant attacks have continued, the BBC said.
He told reporters Washington was concerned that Russia wanted to spread the model elsewhere in Africa, naming Madagascar and Mozambique. He added that US partners were free to partner with whom they wish, but should understand the risks.
He also raised concerns over security in the Mozambique Channel, a shipping route, citing recent piracy incidents and the threat from Islamic State-linked militants in northern Mozambique.
What has Madagascar agreed with Russia?
Russia has expanded co-operation with Madagascar since the army seized power in 2025, supplying weapons and military instructors, the BBC reported. President Michael Randrianirina visited Moscow in February, the first official visit there by a Malagasy leader in nearly 50 years. At last month’s Russia-Africa summit, the two countries signed agreements on defence, tourism and trade, and Moscow said it wanted to deepen economic ties across the continent.
Mr Randrianirina has recently repeated his support for stronger ties between Russia and African countries.
What happens next?
The statement is the US side’s assessment, and neither Madagascar nor Russia has commented on it in the reports reviewed. How Antananarivo responds, and whether the Russian deals expand into a security presence, will show whether the warning changes course.
FAQ
What is the “Sahel model”?
General Brennan used it to describe military-led governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger turning to Russia for security support.
Who leads Madagascar?
The army seized power in 2025, and Michael Randrianirina is the country’s military ruler.
Has Madagascar responded to the US warning?
Not publicly, according to the BBC.
