Russia denies deal for Sudan naval base

ST PETERSBURG, June 12 – Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, confirmed today that talks are ongoing with Sudan regarding a potential Russian base on the Red Sea, but denied any concrete agreement has been reached.

“Communication continues, but there are no firm agreements at this time, even between the defence ministries, to my knowledge,” said Bogdanov, who is also the special presidential envoy for the Middle East and Africa.

In 2019, the two countries agreed to build a logistical centre in Port Sudan. However, following a regime change, the transitional government’s military and civilian components decided to delay ratification until after the general elections.

Recently, several pro-military Sudanese commentators urged General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of the ruling Sovereign Council, to finalize a deal with Russia regarding the naval base without imposing further conditions.

Additionally, Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Siraj, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to establishing a Russian naval base on the Red Sea. In a June 1 interview with Sputnik, Siraj stated that a formal agreement for a logistical support centre has already been reached between the two nations.

Bogdanov expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need for negotiations to end the bloodshed and prevent the country’s collapse.

“The situation threatens Sudan’s territorial integrity. We have consistently called for strengthening and unifying the country, and this can only be achieved through dialogue,” he said.

The diplomat affirmed Russia’s readiness to facilitate talks aimed at a swift resolution to the conflict, stating, “We support the Jeddah negotiations and Saudi Arabia’s mediation efforts, and are prepared to host meetings if requested.”