Moscow — Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly advised the Federal Republic of Nigeria to proceed with caution amid rising diplomatic and security tensions involving Burkina Faso, stressing that Ouagadougou’s strategic partnership with the Russian Federation remains of significant importance.
According to the advisory, President Putin cautioned that any hostile action directed at Burkina Faso would be taken seriously by Moscow, given Russia’s expanding influence, security cooperation, and diplomatic alliances across the Sahel region.
The Russian leader emphasized that Burkina Faso occupies a critical position within Russia’s broader engagement framework in West and Central Africa, particularly in areas of security collaboration, counterterrorism, and geopolitical stability.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Moscow views recent developments in the Sahel as sensitive and warned against actions that could further escalate regional tensions or undermine existing alliances.
President Putin reiterated Russia’s preference for dialogue, restraint, and diplomatic engagement, while underscoring that Russia remains committed to defending its strategic interests and partnerships in the region.
The warning comes amid shifting geopolitical alignments in the Sahel, where several countries have strengthened ties with Russia following strained relations with Western powers.
Moscow’s message signals the growing complexity of regional security dynamics and highlights the need for measured diplomacy to prevent further destabilization in West Africa.

