Madagascar marks one year since uprising as Russia’s influence grows

RFI · 16/10/2026 16:02:39

Madagascar marks one year on Saturday since military leader Michael Randrianirina took power following weeks of youth-led protests that brought down elected president Andry Rajoelina. Over the past year, Russian influence has grown through closer military ties and weapons deliveries, while researchers have identified Moscow’s interest in a strategic Indian Ocean port. Many of the political reforms demanded by protesters, however, remain unfinished.