Russia offers ‘uncapped’ military aid to Sudan

April 30, 2024 (PORT SUDAN)—Last week, Sudan and Russia discussed political support, economic, and military cooperation in Port Sudan, with Russia offering “uncapped” military assistance to the Sudanese army.

Details have emerged regarding last week’s high-level talks between Sudanese and Russian officials in Port Sudan. The discussions focused on bolstering cooperation across various sectors, including politics, economics, and the military.

Informed sources told Sudan Tribune that Russia offered “unrestricted qualitative military aid” to the Sudanese army. This offer, aimed at strengthening bilateral military ties, could involve specialized expertise and, potentially, a Russian presence in Sudan.

The two-day visit (April 28-29) saw a high-profile Russian delegation, led by Mikhail Bogdanov, President Putin’s special envoy for the Middle East and Africa, meet with Sudan’s Sovereignty Council President, Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and other council members.

Notably, the delegation included a sizable military component, with details regarding their discussions with Sudanese counterparts remaining undisclosed.

The issue of a Russian naval base on the Red Sea coast, previously agreed upon with former President Omer al-Bashir, was also raised.  After the collapse of the former regime,  Sudan decided to suspend the implementation of this controversial base until a future-elected legislative council made a final decision.

Beyond military matters, the sources revealed that the Russian delegation inquired about Sudan’s military relations with Ukraine. This follows unconfirmed reports of Ukrainian special forces collaborating with Sudanese troops against the Rapid Support Forces.

Separately, an attempt to establish popular diplomatic ties was observed when Muhammad Al-Amin Turk, head of the Supreme Council of Beja Glasses, met with a member of the Russian delegation.