Togo strengthens ties with Russia and Africa Corps amid rising jihadist threats

Lomé’s strategic shift: balancing security partnerships in the Sahel

The Togolese government has quietly expanded its military and security cooperation with non-traditional partners over the past two years, marking a significant shift in regional defense strategies. This pivot reflects Lomé’s growing concern over the escalating influence of jihadist factions operating across the Sahel, prompting a search for enhanced aerial and logistical support to bolster its counterterrorism efforts.

From Ankara to Moscow: a new security landscape

Since 2023, Togo has deepened its collaboration with Turkey, securing critical air surveillance capabilities and logistical assistance to monitor and disrupt militant movements. The partnership, initially focused on intelligence-sharing and training, has since expanded into joint patrols along the northern borders, where jihadist groups have increasingly targeted civilian and military assets.

This alignment with Ankara was followed in 2025 by a notable engagement with Russia’s Africa Corps, a paramilitary unit deployed across several African nations to provide security training and operational support. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, reports indicate Lomé has welcomed Russian advisors to assist in modernizing its defense infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of military bases in the northern regions.

Faure Gnassingbé’s balancing act

President Faure Gnassingbé has navigated this delicate geopolitical repositioning with caution, maintaining Togo’s long-standing ties with Western partners such as France and the United States while cautiously exploring alternative alliances. Observers note that the Togolese leader’s strategy aims to diversify security guarantees without compromising the country’s traditional diplomatic relationships.

The president’s approach reflects a broader trend among West African nations grappling with the dual pressures of jihadist insurgencies and shifting global power dynamics. By engaging with both Ankara and Moscow, Lomé appears to be hedging its bets, ensuring access to varied military resources while avoiding over-reliance on any single external actor.

Regional implications and unanswered questions

The enhanced cooperation with Russia and Turkey has raised questions about its long-term impact on Togo’s regional standing. While the moves signal a proactive stance against terrorism, critics argue that the opacity surrounding these agreements could undermine transparency and public trust. Additionally, the integration of foreign paramilitary units into domestic security operations remains a contentious issue, with some analysts warning of potential unintended consequences.

As jihadist threats continue to evolve, Lomé’s evolving security partnerships may set a precedent for other coastal West African states seeking to fortify their defenses. Whether this strategy will yield tangible results or further entangle Togo in regional power struggles remains to be seen.