While Trump focused on Iran, Putin gained another strategic ally.
Modern.az reports, citing Western media, that Colonel Michael Randrianir, who came to power in Madagascar after a military coup in October last year, is actively strengthening his ties with Russia.
The country receives helicopters, armored vehicles, weapons, trucks, and food from Moscow, and Randrianir thanks Putin, emphasizing the "fraternal relations" between the countries.
The change of power provides Russia with access to the strategic Toamasina port, the Antsiranana military base, and deposits of metals and rare earth elements. Moscow sends soldiers to the island, organizes military training, and establishes the pro-Russian "Friends of Russia" party.
Experts note that Russia is using the West's distraction to strengthen its influence in Africa.
Madagascar is a major producer of cobalt and graphite, which are important for batteries, and also has strategic access to the Mozambique Channel, through which approximately one-third of the world's oil passes.
