Moscow Summit: Putin rejects neo-colonial label before 48 delegations

President Vladimir Putin told African heads of state in Moscow on Wednesday that Russia does not practice neo-colonial exploitation of the continent. He made the remarks during the third Russia-Africa Summit, addressing delegations from 48 African nations. Twenty-two of those countries were represented by their leaders.

Putin argued that Western nations continue to exploit African resources and use debt to hinder development. He described the West as resistant to a multipolar world where Africa acts as a key player in global politics and economics. The Russian leader stated that his country expands local processing of raw materials to create jobs and generate tax revenue rather than relying on predatory financial terms.

The summit takes place while Russian-backed forces in North Africa fight armed rebellions. Many regional states have emerged from military coups that have affected security in the area. Putin specifically criticized active attempts by Western countries to drive Africans back into debt and force them to accept financial resources on unfavorable conditions.

Agriculture formed a central part of the discussion. Putin said Russia is ready to expand the geographical reach of its agricultural product shipments to the continent. He noted that Russia supplied 13 million metric tonnes of agricultural products to Africa in the first nine months of 2026. This production capacity remains relevant as attacks in the Black Sea disrupt grain exports from both Russia and Ukraine.

Global supply chains face additional pressure from the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. That conflict has interrupted global fertiliser supplies. These disruptions make the availability of Russian agricultural goods a priority for African importers.

Putin will hold one-on-one talks with individual African leaders attending the event. The agenda covers trade, security, grain supplies, and arms deals. The summit is expected to conclude with a final declaration on deepening cooperation between Russia and African nations.

The meeting serves as a platform for Russia to solidify ties with the continent. It comes as global powers adjust their strategies in response to shifting economic and political dynamics in the Global South.