Russia is set to establish a full embassy in Moroni, the capital of the Union of the Comoros, in 2025, following approval from Moscow and an “ad hoc” proposal from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Russia plans to open a full embassy in Moroni, Comoros by 2025 as approved by Moscow.
- The move is part of Russia’s strategy to expand diplomatic and economic engagements in Africa.
- African nations, including Comoros, view this as an opportunity to diversify partnerships beyond Western powers.
- Establishing an embassy in Comoros aligns with Russia’s broader goal to enhance bilateral ties and expand influence in Africa.
The move signals Russia’s intensifying diplomatic engagement across Africa.
For many African governments, particularly smaller states like the Comoros, establishing formal relations with Russia offers a way to diversify international partnerships beyond traditional Western powers.
Russian officials emphasise non-interference, respect for sovereignty, and mutually beneficial cooperation, a message that has resonated with states seeking more flexible geopolitical alignments.
The move is part of a broader push by Russia to deepen its footprint across Africa.
“We are expanding our diplomatic presence throughout Africa,” Russia’s foreign ministry has stated, reflecting a strategy launched after recent summits between Moscow and African capitals.
Expanding footprint across the continent
The Comoros mission is the latest in a wave of Russian efforts to expand its presence in Africa. In recent years, Moscow has already reopened embassies in Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea, and as of 2025 is planning new diplomatic missions in Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Togo and Liberia.
According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Africa’s increasing influence in global politics makes it a priority for Moscow, and the new Comoros embassy forms part of the Kremlin’s broader Africa strategy
The strategy reflects Russia’s broader goal of deepening bilateral ties, increasing trade and investment, and bolstering security cooperation with African nations.
For the Comoros, hosting a Russian embassy could provide access to new trade, investment, and security opportunities, while giving Moscow a foothold in the strategically important Indian Ocean.
Analysts suggest the move is part of Russia’s longer-term plan to expand influence in Africa through a combination of soft power, infrastructure projects, and political partnerships.
The Comoros deal reflects a wider trend: African nations increasingly look east for new partnerships, balancing traditional Western relationships with emerging ties to Russia, China, and other global actors.
