Togo’s Gnassingbé: Balancing Russia & France Diplomacy

Togo is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, maintaining relationships with both traditional partner France and Russia, while other West African nations align more definitively with one or the other. The country’s approach was highlighted following a failed coup attempt in Benin, where the alleged escape route of the rebel leader pointed to a delicate balancing act by the Lomé regime.

Togo’s Diplomatic Maneuvering

Following the collapse of the attempted military coup in Benin on December 7, Lt Col Pascal Tigri, the leader of the rebellion, reportedly fled to neighboring Togo before potentially seeking asylum in either Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou, or Niamey in Niger.

Togo, under the leadership of Faure Gnassingbé, is known for its ability to leverage diplomatic advantages by operating outside conventional norms and fostering relationships with diverse international partners. The government in Lomé is careful not to openly support challenges to neighboring governments, particularly Benin’s President Patrice Talon, with whom relations are already strained.

Despite this caution, Gnassingbé has openly cultivated strong ties with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali – all of which exited the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) in January.

Strengthening Ties with Russia

Togo also signals to France, its long-standing primary international partner, that it has alternative options for cooperation. President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Gnassingbé to the Élysée Palace on October 30 for discussions aimed at bolstering bilateral relations.

Less than three weeks later, on November 20, Gnassingbé met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. During the visit, a defense partnership was formally approved, allowing Russian vessels to utilize Lomé port – a strategically important, deepwater harbor and key supply route for landlocked Sahelian states. These states have become increasingly reliant on Russia following military coups between 2020 and 2023.

While the Paris trip was relatively low-profile, the Moscow excursion received significant attention. The bilateral military accord includes provisions for intelligence sharing and joint military exercises, though Lomé has stated it does not plan to host a base for the Africa Corps, the successor to the Wagner mercenary group.

The visit also included plans for broader economic cooperation and the announcement of the reopening of embassies in both countries, which had been closed since the 1990s.