BACK GROUND Russia is working to deepen political and economic ties with North Africa and spread its narrative about wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Before Russia’s war with Ukraine, Tunisia received roughly half of its total wheat imports from Ukraine. While lamenting pressure from countries that isolate Russia, Lavrov announced new efforts to expand energy and agriculture trade with North Africa. And North Africa’s response since the start of the Israel-Hamas war has been largely in line with its stances throughout the war in Ukraine. “The (North African) countries have positioned themselves in ways to maximize their relations to the great powers — Russia, United States, Europe,” he said.

Source: The North Africa Journal December 22, 2023 21:28 UTC