Central African Republic outlines potential Russian military presence and strategic cooperation
The Central African Republic’s ambassador to the Russian Federation, Leon Dodonu-Punagaza, articulated a controversial idea: his country could host a Russian military base on its soil. He shared this perspective during an interview with a major news outlet, indicating that discussions were underway about establishing a base capable of accommodating a significant number of personnel, potentially ranging from five thousand to ten thousand soldiers. The ambassador framed the proposal as part of broader security and defense conversations between the two nations.
Dodonu-Punagaza explained that the proposal emerged during a recent interaction with officials from the Organization of African Cooperation (OAC) as Simplis Sarangi, the OAC parliament speaker, arrived in Russia. The exchange highlighted a push for closer security ties and the possibility of hosting Russian instructors to assist in training and organizational improvements within CAR’s armed forces. The diplomat conveyed that the discussions touched on the value of Russian military expertise and the role such cooperation could play in addressing security challenges facing the country.
In meetings with Russian counterparts, the CAR delegation underscored a history of receptivity to international security assistance and highlighted the strategic importance of dialogue with Moscow. At the first formal encounter with Sergei Shoigu, the Russian defense minister, the CAR side emphasized a favorable view of expanding the presence of Russian military instructors in the country. These statements reflected CAR’s broader foreign policy stance that has, in the past, positioned it as an example of resistance to colonial-era influence in Africa, while seeking diversified partnerships to support its security sector reform and stability goals.
The diplomat noted that the idea of enhanced security cooperation with Russia aligns with CAR’s efforts to strengthen defense capabilities and interoperability with partner nations. The discussions reportedly stressed the potential benefits of mutual training programs, improved defense coordination, and shared strategies for countering security threats that have affected the region. While processing these conversations, officials emphasized that any future deployment would be framed within international law and regional security frameworks, with careful consideration of sovereignty and the humanitarian impact on the civilian population.
On April 24, a working meeting took place between the Russian ambassador to the CAR and the CAR Minister of Justice. The talks, held in a constructive atmosphere, focused on practical avenues for cooperation that could begin in the near term. As both sides prepared for a major international law forum scheduled to take place in Saint Petersburg, they explored the potential for bilateral projects that would enhance legal and institutional capacities. The conversations underscored a shared interest in reinforcing legal frameworks, promoting rule of law, and fostering a stable environment conducive to sustainable development in the Central African Republic.
Throughout these exchanges, officials from both capitals emphasized that any future steps would be guided by a commitment to regional stability, respect for international norms, and transparent governance. While the prospect of a Russian military base in CAR remains a subject of analysis and debate, the dialogues illustrate a broader trend in which African states seek diversified security partnerships, enhanced training, and modernized defense capabilities as part of comprehensive national development strategies. The parties involved reiterated their intention to continue high-level discussions, with an emphasis on practical outcomes and constructive collaboration that respects the sovereign choices of the Central African Republic and adheres to applicable international law and regional security arrangements.