In a high-profile diplomatic engagement in Moscow on Tuesday, Mozambique’s Foreign Minister Maria Manuela Lucas reaffirmed her country’s defence cooperation with Russia, while expressing deep concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine and its cascading impact on food security across Africa.
Diplomatic Visit Amid Global Tensions
The official visit by Foreign Minister Lucas comes at a time of heightened global scrutiny over Russia’s military involvement in Ukraine. During her meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Lucas voiced hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while praising the “resilience” of the Russian people.
“We have been following the situation closely,” Lucas said. “Mozambique would very much like for this matter to be resolved in a peaceful way.”
She added that the war’s ripple effects were already being felt far beyond Europe. “The conflict is having a severe impact on food security in Africa. This must not be ignored.”
Her comments coincided with a statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday, who announced another round of talks with Russia scheduled for Wednesday, raising cautious hopes for progress toward de-escalation.
Russia Reaffirms Military Commitment to Mozambique
While Mozambique urged peace, the focus of the bilateral visit was squarely on defence cooperation. Foreign Minister Lavrov used the occasion to underscore Russia’s readiness to deepen military support for Mozambique.
“We have confirmed our readiness to consider all requests from our friends in Mozambique on issues related to the need to strengthen their defence capability,” Lavrov stated, “particularly in the sphere of counter-terrorism.”
Lavrov acknowledged the persistent security threats facing the southern African nation, particularly from Islamist insurgents operating in the Cabo Delgado region.
“Unfortunately, such threats in Mozambique and in other African countries remain. Russia is committed to standing by its partners,” he added.
A History of Strategic Military Partnership
The latest developments are part of a broader, years-long trend of growing defence cooperation between Moscow and Maputo. In 2019, Mozambique enlisted the services of Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary outfit, to support its fight against jihadist insurgents in the north of the country.
Although the mercenary campaign was marked by controversy and operational challenges, it signaled Mozambique’s willingness to look to Russia for security support when international assistance proved limited.
A 2020 German intelligence report even suggested that Russia had plans to establish a military base in Mozambique, though this has never been officially confirmed by either government.
Strategic Stakes for Both Countries
For Russia, reinforcing its ties with Mozambique offers a strategic foothold in southern Africa and a counterbalance to Western influence in the region. For Mozambique, the relationship offers both military hardware and political support in the face of persistent internal threats.
Analysts believe the alliance may also reflect broader trends of Africa turning to alternative partners amid shifting global power dynamics.
“This is part of a larger pivot,” said an Africa security analyst based in Johannesburg. “African countries like Mozambique are engaging new global partners who are willing to provide quick, tangible military assistance, often without the human rights conditionalities Western nations require.”
A Delicate Balancing Act
Mozambique’s government finds itself in a diplomatic balancing act maintaining critical defence ties with Russia while expressing genuine concern over the humanitarian toll of the Ukraine war. Lucas’ call for peace, alongside her endorsement of defence collaboration, reflects the complexity of navigating international alliances in today’s multipolar world.
As negotiations between Russia and Ukraine resume, the international community, Africa included will be watching closely.
“Peace must remain our highest goal,” Lucas concluded. “But while we pursue peace, we must also ensure that our countries are secure and our people protected.”
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