Russia: 48 African Countries in Moscow — The Figures Behind the Diplomatic Display

Moscow hosted representatives of 48 African countries in October 2026 for the third Russia-Africa summit, which opened on 28 October at the Grand Kremlin Palace under Vladimir Putin’s chairmanship. The previous day, the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, with 12 members and 8 observers, marked its 25th anniversary. The Russian president described gas as a pillar of global energy, industry and agriculture and criticized the European Union’s decision to end Russian supplies. The article points to declarations, agreements and unresolved questions surrounding the meetings.