Putin Opens Russia-Africa Summit With Trade and Supply Pledges

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on Wednesday, presenting Russia as a partner for African countries and pledging to expand agricultural shipments. The two-day gathering brought delegations from 48 African countries, including 22 represented by their leaders, for discussions on trade, security, arms deals and grain supplies. Putin said Russia was ready to broaden the reach of its agricultural exports. He told participants that Russia had supplied 13 million metric tonnes of agricultural products to Africa in the first nine months of 2026. The delivery figure and the claim that Russia could expand supplies were statements by Putin; the reports did not independently verify them. The Russian president also argued that African countries should have greater influence at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, and said Moscow was prepared to pursue joint transport and agricultural infrastructure projects. He described Russia as willing to share digital expertise and support local processing of raw materials, which he said could create jobs and tax revenue. Putin criticized Western countries, alleging they continued to exploit...