Sudan Rejects Hosting Russian Naval Base Amid Geopolitical Struggles.

According to information published by The Moscow Times on December 18, 2024, Sudan has officially declined Russia's request to establish a naval base on the Red Sea coast in Port Sudan, despite ongoing negotiations and offers of military and economic assistance.
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Russian Navy's Admiral Grigorovich class frigate Admiral Grigorovich. (Picture source: Ибрагим Ишак)

This decision comes as Russia seeks to enhance its influence in Africa and secure a strategic foothold following potential setbacks in Syria, where the fate of its naval and air bases is uncertain amid the conflict.

Discussions about establishing a Russian naval base in Port Sudan date back to 2019 when Sudan and Russia signed a preliminary agreement. However, Sudan's internal turmoil, marked by a protracted civil war, has delayed ratification. Initially, Russia supported the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group involved in the conflict, through the Wagner Group. Over time, Moscow shifted its allegiance to Sudan's government forces, seeking to consolidate its position in the region.

In February 2024, Russian Ambassador Andrey Chernovol announced that plans for the naval base had been postponed indefinitely. Despite this, Russia has intensified its negotiations with Sudanese officials, even as fighting continues in the capital, Khartoum.

Russia's interest in Port Sudan has grown amid fears of losing its military assets in Syria, a critical link to Africa. Western officials and Sudanese intelligence sources have reported that Russia, along with Iran, has pursued talks with Sudan’s government regarding base construction. Such a move would secure Moscow's influence in the Red Sea and provide a strategic gateway to the Indian Ocean, enabling control over vital shipping lanes, including the Suez Canal.

In a bid to sway Sudan, Russia reportedly offered advanced military hardware, including the S-400 missile defense system. However, Sudan rejected this proposal, citing concerns over potential backlash from the United States and Western allies. American officials and Sudanese intelligence sources confirmed this development, indicating Sudan’s cautious balancing act in its foreign policy.

Despite the setback, Russia has strengthened its military and economic ties with Sudan. Following a visit by Malik Agar, Sudan’s deputy leader, to Moscow in June 2024, Russia agreed to supply weapons in exchange for access to a fueling station on the Red Sea coast. This arrangement has already materialized, with Sudanese port officials confirming the arrival of multiple arms shipments.