A new ally in the turmoil: the South Sudanese president visiting Moscow
Amid diplomatic turmoil between South Sudan and the United States, President Salva Kiir made a two-day state visit to Moscow. Accompanied by a delegation of senior officials, Kiir expressed his intention to strengthen ties with Russia, seeking new allies in the war in Ukraine.
One of the main objectives of the visit is to gain Russian support for lifting the arms embargo imposed on South Sudan by the United Nations Security Council. Russia, already engaged in oil exploitation in the region, could find in this cooperation an opportunity to secure its investments and extend its influence in the region.
In addition to security cooperation, Kiir also hopes to establish partnerships in education, health and economic development. The South Sudanese president sees Russia as a “strong friend” that he needs to support his country in its reconstruction and development.
The visit comes shortly after Kiir returned from the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he did not have the opportunity to meet US President Joe Biden. This new distance between South Sudan and the United States highlights the difficulties that the country encounters in its relations with the great Western powers.
This strengthened cooperation with Russia will undoubtedly have repercussions on the global diplomatic scene. As Russia seeks to expand its influence, South Sudan sees this alliance as an opportunity to free itself from its dependence on the United States and diversify its international partners.
Beyond geopolitical interests, it is essential to take into account the consequences of this cooperation for the South Sudanese population. With the possible lifting of the arms embargo, it is crucial that monitoring and monitoring mechanisms are put in place to prevent an escalation of violence and human rights violations in the country.
In conclusion, President Kiir’s visit to Moscow marks a turning point in relations between South Sudan and Russia. As the country seeks new partners to support its development, it is imperative to ensure that this cooperation is done with respect for human rights and for the benefit of the people of South Sudan.