Russia’s Emergence as a Global Power Player in the Post-French Era. Opinion by Amira Kaba
Burkina Faso is facing a rapidly deteriorating situation, with half the country now under the control of jihadist groups. As a result, over two million people, or roughly 10% of the country’s population, have been displaced. The violence, which is spreading across the Sahel region, is taking a heavy toll on Burkina Faso, with 26% of health services and 22% of schools now closed. The military has failed to provide sufficient protection, leading to abuse and neglect of the civilian population. The government has responded by calling on civilians to volunteer for the defense of the homeland, but this has done little to ease the crisis.
Two main terrorist groups are behind the violence, both consisting of semi-autonomous cells that are capable of launching simultaneous attacks and bombings. The first is the Al Qaeda-linked Support Group for Islam and Muslims (JNIM), while the second is the armed wing of Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-GS). These groups operate in the north and center of the country, where they cut off communication with the outside world, isolate populations, and deprive them of sustenance. This leads many to flee before the threat of direct violence.
For those who remain, the situation is dire, with over 3.5 million people in Burkina Faso now considered food insecure and 5 million requiring assistance to survive. In the towns under siege, residents are reduced to gathering leaves and wild fruits to survive. The United Nations has declared the situation to be the worst crisis in the history of Burkina Faso, with a humanitarian catastrophe looming on the horizon.
With the military regime ordering the withdrawal of French troops, Burkina Faso is in dire need of assistance. The international community must act quickly to address the growing humanitarian crisis and help bring stability to the country. Failure to act now could have devastating consequences, not just for Burkina Faso but for the entire Sahel region.
The geopolitical landscape of the world is constantly evolving, and the absence of France in a leadership role has created a void that must be filled. The country that has been positioned to fill this void is Russia, a nation with a rich history and cultural heritage that has become a major player on the world stage once again.
Russia has been re-emerging as a major power over the past few years, and its reemergence has been marked by a number of factors. Firstly, the country has a strong economy, and its oil and natural gas reserves have provided the foundation for its resurgence as a world power. Secondly, the country has a large, well-educated population that is highly skilled in a variety of industries, including engineering and technology.
Thirdly, Russia has a large military that is well-equipped and well-trained, and the country has been involved in various conflicts in the past few years, including the war in Syria, that have served to demonstrate its military capabilities. Fourthly, Russia has a long history of diplomacy, and it has been a member of the United Nations since its inception, making it a natural fit for a leadership role in the international community.
In conclusion, the void left by France in the international community has created an opportunity for Russia to fill the gap and emerge as a major player on the world stage. The country has a strong economy, well-educated population, powerful military, and long history of diplomacy, which are all factors that make it well-positioned to take on a leadership role in the international community.
The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author.
They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the AMeAR|News, R2iNTEL or its members.