Togo’s Faure Gnassingbé Navigates Relations with Russia and France

Amid shifting alliances in West Africa, Togo, under President Faure Gnassingbé, seeks to balance ties with France and Russia, recently formalizing a defense partnership with Moscow while maintaining cautious relations with Benin. Following a failed coup in Benin, Togo’s involvement remains ambiguous, highlighting its diplomatic strategy of diversifying relationships. Gnassingbé’s outreach includes a recent visit to Paris and a warm meeting with Putin. Togo aims to strengthen its role in the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.