In this insightful interview, Steven Gruzd, a leading expert on Russia-Africa relations, explores the multifaceted dimensions of Russia’s foreign policy towards Africa, from its Soviet legacy to contemporary geopolitical strategies. Delving into topics such as security, trade, energy partnerships, and soft power, this discussion offers a comprehensive analysis of Russia’s evolving role on the African continent.

Steven Gruzd is the Head of the African Governance and Diplomacy Programme and the Africa-Russia Project at the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). Gruzd has authored influential analyses on Africa–Russia summits, BRICS cooperation, and the re-emergence of Russian influence in African foreign policy arenas. In addition to his policy work, Steven is also a contributing journalist to the South African Jewish Report, where he writes on international affairs, governance, and Jewish community issues, bringing a journalistic lens to complex geopolitical developments.

Content: (1) The Soviet Legacy: Shaping Russia’s Modern Foreign Policy Towards Africa; (2) Post-Soviet Space and Africa: How Africa Views Former Soviet Republics; (3) Russia’s Security Presence in Africa: The Role of the Wagner Group; (4) Arms Deals and Military Influence: Russia’s Weapon Sales to Africa; (5) Russia vs. China: Economic Influence in Africa; (6) Why is Russia’s Trade in Africa Still Lagging Behind?; (7) Russian Energy Companies in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges; (8) Do African Countries Seek Energy Partnerships with Russia?; (9) The Russia-Africa Summit: A Diplomatic Platform for Russia’s Interests; (10) Russia-Africa Summit vs. BRICS: Diverging Approaches to Russian Interests in Africa; (11) Russia’s Soft Power in Africa: Academic and Cultural Initiatives; (12) Peacekeeping and Counterterrorism: Russia’s Role in African Stability; (13) Russian Foreign Aid to Africa: Aid or Influence?; (14) Russian Media’s Influence in Africa: Shaping Public Opinion; and (15) Under-Explored Research Areas in Russia-Africa Relations.

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