Putin supplies military equipment to Madagascar to expand influence in Africa - Bloomberg

While US President Donald Trump decided to focus his attention on Iran, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is working with the authorities of Madagascar - he supplies military equipment there, including helicopters. This is reported by UNN with reference to Bloomberg.

Details

Recently, in the barracks of Madagascar's main airport, in the presence of politicians, diplomats and comrades-in-arms, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who has headed this state since October 17, 2025, welcomed the delivery of combat helicopters, trucks and rice from an ally.

I would especially like to thank my brother, Russian President Vladimir Putin, for this assistance. This marks the continuation of the long-standing fraternal relations between Madagascar and Russia. We will revive and strengthen them

This event took place a day before the US and Israel launched an attack on Iran. It caused almost no resonance outside Madagascar - at the same time, the island itself became another springboard for Putin, who seeks to expand Russia's influence on the African continent and take advantage of geopolitical instability.

In addition, the change of leadership in Madagascar opened up new opportunities for Russians to access a country that possesses valuable deposits of metals and minerals and is located on an oil transportation route.

At the same time, chaos in the energy market and soaring prices gave a boost to the Russian economy after four years of war in Ukraine depleted resources and damaged its economy

Recall

In December 2025, Russia sent weapons to the military government of Madagascar, which came to power as a result of the October coup.