Russia is walking a fine line in North Africa, as it strives to preserve strong ties with both Morocco and Algeria. Two regional powers whose deep-rooted rivalry now tests Moscow’s diplomatic finesse.
On one hand, the Kremlin continues to bolster its long-standing alliance with Algeria through defense contracts, gas projects and shared security interests. On the other, Moscow has recently signaled warmer relations with Morocco, notably by supporting Rabat’s Sahara Autonomy Plan and signing a new fisheries agreement that deepens economic cooperation.
Human and cultural dimensions are also at play here. Both countries see themselves as gateways between Africa, Europe and the Arab world; and Russia’s presence influences local perceptions of power, security and sovereignty. Businesses in tourism, trade and energy increasingly feel the tremors of this diplomatic dance, weighing opportunities against uncertainty.
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