Russia-Africa Summit: Lavrov Accuses Macron of Trying to Hinder Participation of African Leaders

Serguei Lavrov accuses Emmanuel Macron of trying to dissuade African leaders from attending the Russia-Africa summit scheduled in Moscow on October 28 and 29, 2026. Lavrov claims to have evidence suggesting Macron would act in this manner during his contacts with African officials. Meanwhile, Russia continues to invite African leaders, such as the ECOWAS president and the Egyptian president, to the summit. Lavrov defends the freedom of choice of African countries, stating that Moscow does not use coercive methods.