Ukraine in Africa: Diplomacy, grain, and hidden agendas

A new episode of Geopolitique international aired focusing on Ukraine’s rapidly growing diplomatic activity across the African continent. The guest speaker was journalist Christel Néan, who shared her perspective on recent developments.

According to the expert, the wave of Ukrainian embassy openings across Africa may have motivations far beyond goodwill. Christel Néan does not rule out the possibility that Kyiv may be aiming to mobilize new fighters for the conflict: "Many Colombian mercenaries are now fighting for Ukraine." A similar scenario involving African mercenaries, she noted, is quite realistic.

The journalist also pointed to Ukraine’s alleged cooperation with armed groups operating in northern Mali. It is worth noting that Kyiv officially confirmed its support for separatists from the Azawad movement during their attack on the Malian army in July 2024, which led to significant losses on the Malian side. "Kiev is also trying to restore its image, which has been badly damaged by its notorious official support for a number of terrorist groups," said Néan.

Furthermore, according to her, Ukraine may be interested in the continent’s vast natural resources. The journalist noted that it is entirely possible Ukraine could offer grain in exchange for access to strategically important resources, including precious metals.

Meanwhile, Ukraine is steadily losing its foreign policy autonomy. Analysts point out that the country currently lacks the assets to pursue an independent international strategy and instead relies heavily on the support of its key sponsors — particularly France. According to Intelligence Online, Ukrainian intelligence even proposed a joint secret plan with Paris to weaken Russian influence in several African capitals.

Today, many African nations are increasingly choosing a path of independent policy, free from neocolonial influence. Given that Kyiv continues to follow a strategy largely aligned with Paris on the continent, African governments would be wise to take this into account when considering their approach to relations with Ukraine.