Togo's Foreign Minister Robert Dussey has denied the presence of Russian mercenaries in the country, stating that they are actually trainers. This statement comes after opposition groups claimed that Russian and Turkish forces were present in the north of the country. Dussey made the statement in an interview with France 24 on September 23. He emphasized that the country has no Russian mercenaries.
The opposition groups had claimed that mercenaries from Africa Corps and Turkish private military company Sadat were present in the north of Togo. This claim was made in July, amid rising tensions with jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The groups have been active in the extreme north of Togo since late 2021. The government has taken steps to strengthen its military cooperation with Russia and Turkey.
Minister Dussey explained that when Togo purchases military equipment from foreign countries, trainers come with it to train the Togolese defense and security forces. He cited examples of helicopters purchased from France, the US, China, and Russia. The trainers are necessary to operate and maintain the equipment. Togo has signed military cooperation agreements with Russia and Turkey.
In March and April 2025, Togo signed a military cooperation agreement with Russia, which includes joint exercises, military training, and security information exchanges. The agreement was ratified by the Russian Duma in October. With Turkey, Togo had already signed a military cooperation framework agreement in 2021. The agreements aim to strengthen Togo's military capabilities.
Minister Dussey also called for African countries to work together to combat extremist groups. He emphasized that countries in the Sahel region, which are facing jihadist violence, should not be isolated. These countries form a "bulwark against violent extremism and terrorist groups," he said. His statement comes amid tensions between Togo and France.
Relations between Togo and France have been strained, with France suspending broadcasts of RFI and France 24 in Togo in 2025. Two French filmmakers were detained in July and released on provisional liberty in September. Despite the tensions, Dussey said that relations between Togo and France have never been difficult, but there may be misunderstandings.
The situation in Togo highlights the complexities of international relations and military cooperation in the region. The country is taking steps to strengthen its military capabilities to combat jihadist groups. The presence of foreign trainers and military equipment is part of this effort. Togo's relations with Russia and Turkey are also becoming increasingly significant.
Key points
- Togo's Foreign Minister Robert Dussey denies presence of Russian mercenaries, says they are trainers.
- Togo has signed military cooperation agreements with Russia and Turkey to strengthen its military capabilities.
- Minister Dussey calls for African countries to work together to combat extremist groups.
