Togo has emerged as a crucial arena for an intense geopolitical rivalry unfolding between France and Russia. Through a blend of crisis diplomacy, security pacts, and soft power initiatives, these two global powers are actively vying for influence over this strategically important state situated on the Gulf of Guinea.
Within the discreet spheres of power in Lomé’s presidential palace, a nuanced diplomatic balancing act is underway. Togo, historically viewed as a quiet and traditional ally of France in West Africa, now finds itself at the heart of a significant power struggle between Paris and Moscow. With French influence diminishing considerably across the Sahel region following diplomatic ruptures with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, France is striving to secure its foothold along the maritime coast. Meanwhile, Russia, buoyed by its achievements in neighboring Sahelian nations, is steadily expanding its presence in Lomé with a well-established strategy.
Paris’s belated diplomatic awakening
The alarm bells have clearly sounded in Paris. In April 2026, France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs undertook an official visit to Lomé. This was no ordinary occurrence: it marked the first time a French diplomatic chief had visited Togo in over two decades.
Recognizing that moral pronouncements alone are no longer sufficient to retain its long-standing allies, France has opted to refocus its strategy on tangible, high-impact social investments. To counteract the burgeoning anti-French sentiment across the region, Paris is emphasizing modernity and human development. The funding for a new university hospital and the establishment of a cutting-edge artificial intelligence center in Lomé exemplify this ambition to re-establish itself as a forward-looking partner, indispensable to Togo’s youth and influential circles.
Africa Corps’ shadow over the security front
Nevertheless, on the most critical front—that of security—Moscow appears to have gained a significant lead. Facing an escalating jihadist threat in its northern Savanes region, Togo is actively seeking swift and unencumbered solutions.
In 2025, Lomé and Moscow formalized a military cooperation agreement. This strategic alignment paves the way for the deployment of the Africa Corps, the state-backed Russian entity that has replaced the Wagner paramilitary group. For the Togolese government, the primary objective is to secure operational support and military hardware to stabilize the nation’s northern territories, an area where French military approaches are frequently perceived as overly cumbersome or tied to political conditions.
Beyond weaponry: the struggle for rail, soft power, and economy
The Kremlin’s strategy extends far beyond mere military engagement. Russia has set its sights on Togo’s most significant asset: the deep-water port of Lomé, a vital logistical hub unique in the sub-region. Moscow aspires to transform it into its primary gateway to the Sahelian hinterland. Ambitious infrastructure projects are already under consideration, including the construction of a railway and a pipeline connecting Lomé to Burkina Faso, thereby solidifying a corridor of influence linking the Gulf of Guinea to the military-led governments of the Sahel.
Concurrently, Russia is employing a particularly assertive soft power strategy to sway public opinion and civil society:
- Education: A significant increase in university scholarships offered for study in Russia.
- Culture: Establishment of Russian language centers and the hosting of cultural events and concerts in Lomé.
- Information Warfare: Dissemination of sovereignist and anti-Western narratives, which resonate favorably with segments of the population.
Faure Gnassingbé, the master of the balancing act
Confronted by this influx of contenders, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé demonstrates astute political pragmatism. Far from aligning with a single side, he skillfully leverages this rivalry to maximize benefits for his nation. The head of state consistently participates in France-Africa summits to cultivate relations with Western nations, while simultaneously preparing for his meticulously planned visit to the upcoming Russia-Africa summit slated for October.
