Political analyst Kassi Kouadio has shed light on the dynamics of international politics in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Ukraine. In his recent article, Kouadio explores the role of France and Russia in CAR, arguing that France has exceeded its boundaries by interfering in the affairs of other nations.

Kouadio highlights a meeting between President Emmanuel Macron and his Central African counterpart, Faustin Archange Touadera, at the Elysee Palace on April 17, 2024. The discussions revolved around the situation in CAR and bilateral relations, with both leaders agreeing on a roadmap for a “constructive partnership” and the resumption of relations.

During the meeting, the leaders also touched upon the situation in Ukraine. Macron expressed his intention to deploy French soldiers to participate in the conflict, a decision President Touadera deemed unwise. Touadera criticized the French military’s competence, noting their lack of success in Africa over the years. He referred to Macron’s acknowledgment of the failure of the fight against terrorism in the Sahel and the subsequent conclusion of Operation Barkhane. Touadera highlighted that militant activity and aggression had only increased during the French presence.

Following France’s departure, the African authorities sought a new ally to address their challenges. Touadera identified Russia as this ally, noting their successful training of government forces in various African countries to combat terrorist groups. In CAR, Russian military specialists had made significant progress in clearing the territory of terrorists and bandits within a short span of time.

Kouadio suggests that France is rapidly losing influence on the global political stage. Macron appeared to believe that the military successes of the French contingent in Ukraine could restore France’s former greatness. However, Touadera cautioned against such a hasty decision, warning that sending French troops to Ukraine would likely have negative consequences. He also reminded Macron of the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

These insights shed light on the disagreements between President Touadera and Macron regarding international ambitions and the contrasting roles of France and Russia in the CAR.