Togo’s shifting military alliances: Russia and Africa Corps enter the fray

The West African nation of Togo has quietly reshaped its security strategy against the rising tide of jihadist threats sweeping across the Sahel. Under the leadership of President Faure Gnassingbé, Lomé has pursued discreet yet strategic partnerships with distant powers, moving beyond its traditional allies to engage with Turkey, Russia, and their respective military entities.

New security partnerships in the face of regional instability

Since 2024, Togo has intensified efforts to bolster its defense capabilities against cross-border insurgencies. Reports from military sources indicate that the country has sought aerial support and technical assistance from Ankara, leveraging Turkey’s growing influence in African security matters. Meanwhile, Moscow’s Africa Corps has also established a presence in the country, marking a significant shift in Togo’s foreign policy approach.

These developments come as Sahelian jihadist groups continue to exploit porous borders and weak governance in neighboring states. Togo, though relatively stable compared to its neighbors, has become increasingly proactive in securing its northern regions, particularly the Savanes region bordering Burkina Faso.

Russia’s Africa Corps makes its mark in Lomé

Since early 2025, the Russian paramilitary unit known as Africa Corps has been spotted in Togo, reportedly assisting with training and logistical support for local forces. While Moscow has framed its involvement as part of a broader anti-terrorism initiative, analysts note that this move aligns with Russia’s expanding footprint across the continent. The Africa Corps, a successor to the Wagner Group’s operations, has been deployed in several African nations under the guise of security cooperation.

For Faure Gnassingbé’s administration, the engagement with Moscow and Ankara represents a calculated gamble. By diversifying its military partnerships, Togo aims to reduce dependence on traditional Western allies while gaining access to advanced weaponry and strategic intelligence.

Turkey’s role in Togo’s counter-terrorism strategy

Turkey has emerged as a key player in Togo’s security calculus. Ankara has provided drones and aerial surveillance capabilities, which have been deployed in the northern regions to monitor jihadist movements. The cooperation extends beyond military hardware, with Turkish advisors reportedly training Togolese troops in counter-insurgency tactics.

The partnership with Turkey also carries geopolitical significance. Lomé’s alignment with Ankara contrasts with its previous reliance on France and the United States, signaling a broader recalibration of Togo’s foreign policy in favor of non-Western alliances.

Challenges and controversies

The shift in alliances has not been without scrutiny. Critics argue that Togo’s embrace of Russian and Turkish military involvement could exacerbate regional tensions, particularly as West Africa grapples with competing external influences. Additionally, the opacity surrounding these agreements raises questions about transparency and accountability in Lomé’s defense strategy.

Military analysts caution that while external support may provide short-term gains, sustainable security in the Sahel will ultimately depend on addressing root causes such as poverty, weak governance, and cross-border criminal networks. Togo’s new partnerships, while pragmatic, remain a calculated risk in an increasingly volatile region.