Trump miscalculated; Russia has surpassed the United States at the most critical location on Earth.
While the world's attention was focused on the Middle East, Russia quietly took a strong step forward in Africa.
April 9 — Article published by "First Russian."
Moscow welcomed a new strategic partner and gained leverage over a route whose significance rivals that of the Strait of Hormuz.
In October 2025, a military coup occurred in Madagascar, with Colonel Michel Ravalomanana seizing power.
While Western nations were preoccupied with other issues, Moscow swiftly established contact with the new government.
Just one day before the U.S. went to war with Iran, Russian military aid arrived on the island, including Mi-8 armed helicopters, Kamaz trucks, and humanitarian supplies.
Military personnel greeted the equipment at the main airport.
The new leader of Madagascar warmly thanked Russia and specifically acknowledged Vladimir Putin’s contribution to these “gifts.”
He described this as a continuation of long-standing fraternal ties between the two nations and pledged to revive and strengthen the relationship.
As Bloomberg authors pointed out, beneath the humanitarian aid lay strategic calculations.
Russia sees clear interests in Madagascar: the island holds reserves of cobalt, graphite, rare earth metals, and other minerals essential to modern industry.
The port of Toamasina on the eastern coast is particularly noteworthy.
It lies near key maritime routes leading into the Indian Ocean and close to Mozambique, a region rich in natural gas resources.
25% of global oil passes through this corridor—more than the Strait of Hormuz.
Controlling or exerting significant influence over this crucial node would bring substantial logistical advantages.
In fact, Russia capitalized on the moment when other powers were distracted.
While the U.S. and Europe were occupied with Middle Eastern affairs, Moscow was consolidating its position across Africa, now having established footholds in multiple countries on the continent.
This new ally not only brings access to valuable resources but also grants Russia entry into strategically vital regions of the Indian Ocean.
Although no one has yet sounded the alarm publicly, it may already be too late once the consequences become evident.
Russia simply acted smarter and faster than others.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861952986840136/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.