Russia launches new shipping line to boost African trade ties
Russia plans to launch a new shipping line aimed at exporting agricultural products, including grain seized from Ukraine, to Africa. This is part of Moscow's broader strategy to strengthen relations with Nigeria and other African countries, reports Business Insider Africa.
Russia intends to launch a new shipping line connecting Novorossiysk with Lagos, expected to commence in mid-June. According to Business Insider Africa, this maritime connection aims to facilitate the export of agricultural products, including grain from Ukraine, to Africa. Russia does not have a direct air link with Nigeria, making this initiative crucial for its trade strategy.
New Russian connections for selling raw materials
The Kremlin also plans a connection between Novorossiysk and Dakar in Senegal, aiming to enable the export of raw materials from Mali. Additionally, Russia is strengthening military relations with Nigeria. In March 2025, Russian Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-bek Yevkurov met with General Christopher Musa, Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, to discuss arms deliveries, continuing the 2021 agreement.
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, joined the BRICS group as a partner country in January, despite Western pressures. Russia seeks to play a leading role in this group as part of its strategy to increase regional influence. Previously, Nigeria had long resisted Russia but is now strengthening cooperation with it.
It is important to note that reports of Russia exporting Ukrainian grain have been circulating since the beginning of the war. According to Ukraine, in 2023, Russians illegally exported at least 3.6 million metric tonnes of grain from the occupied territories. Before the Russian invasion, that is, until February 2022, Ukrainians exported 5.4 million metric tonnes of grain monthly through Black Sea ports alone. In total, in 2024, Ukraine exported 43.2 million metric tonnes of grain, an increase of 30 percent compared to 2023.
