Sudan proposes a Russian base on the Red Sea... a move that redraws the map of influence in Africa.

Sudanese sources revealed that Khartoum offered Moscow to establish the first permanent Russian naval base in Africa, giving Russia a strategic foothold on the Red Sea and enhancing its military presence in vital sea lanes, according to the "Wall Street Journal." The proposed agreement, which is supposed to extend for 25 years, allows Russian warships, including nuclear ones, to dock at Port Sudan or another undisclosed naval facility, with the deployment of about 300 Russian personnel at the site. The proposal also grants Russian companies priority in mining contracts, as Moscow relies on Sudanese gold exports to boost its economy amid Western sanctions. From the proposed location, Moscow will be able to monitor maritime traffic heading towards the Suez Canal, through which about 12% of global trade passes. The offer comes as the Sudanese army seeks to obtain advanced weapons to enhance its capabilities in the face of internal rebellion, raising growing concern in the United States and the European Union about the escalating Russian influence in the region. Observers point out that the presence of a permanent Russian base in Port Sudan gives Moscow strategic and military gains, and enhances its image as a power capable of competing with the United States and China in international sea lanes. The move is part of the escalating international competition for ports and vital corridors in Africa, following the expansion of Chinese influence through the "Belt and Road Initiative," the establishment of a naval base in Djibouti, and the deployment of US forces in Somalia to confront armed movements, making the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean a stage for the entanglement of security and international interests. Amid these tensions, Sudan continues to face a worsening humanitarian crisis, with estimates indicating about 150,000 deaths and more than 12 million displaced people as a result of the ongoing conflict, while the "Rapid Support Forces" have controlled the Darfur region since last October amid accusations of widespread violations against civilians.