Russia suspends construction of naval base in Sudan

The construction of a Russian naval base in Sudan has been paused, Russian Ambassador to Sudan Andrey Chernovol told RIA Novosti.

He reminded that in 2020, the two countries signed an interstate agreement allowing Sudan to host a logistics and support facility for the Russian Navy.

“Given the current military conflict, progress on this matter has been temporarily suspended,” the diplomat said.

In 2020, Russia and Sudan signed an interstate agreement allowing for the construction of a logistics and support facility for the Russian Navy, which would provide docking, maintenance, and resupply capabilities for Russian warships operating in the region.

The base was intended to strengthen Russia’s influence in the Red Sea corridor, a strategic maritime route for global trade and energy supplies, and to provide Moscow with a foothold near the Horn of Africa. Reports indicated that Sudan had agreed to lease the land to Russia and allow Russian personnel and equipment on its territory.

However, the project has faced repeated delays and scepticism from the international community. 

By Khagan Isayev