Tears in Moscow: Burkina Faso’s Traore Shares Soulful Embrace with Putin, Crowd Chants ‘Africa-Russia Forever!’ (Video) | HO

Traore’s Moscow Charm Offensive Goes Nuclear: Burkina Faso Leader Secures Secret Pact Amid Putin Bear Hug (Video Proof) | HO

In a powerful display of diplomatic warmth and solidarity, Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traore has captivated Russian audiences and leaders alike during his recent visit to Moscow, where he met with President Vladimir Putin. The occasion, marked by the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War, showcased not only the strengthening ties between Burkina Faso and Russia but also President Traore’s vision for a new era of African independence, resilience, and historical awareness.

Rewriting History and Reclaiming Identity

President Traore’s visit comes at a time when the narrative about Africa’s history and its role in the world is being hotly contested. In a candid and emotional address, Traore reflected on how, for too long, African history has been distorted by foreign media and colonial powers. He recounted his own experience growing up listening to Western radio stations like RFI and France 24, which shaped his worldview in ways he now recognizes as manipulative.

“My biggest regret,” Traore admitted, “is having spent a good part of my youth listening to radios like RFI and France 24. I’ve lived in countries where these were the only sources of news, but after a while, I realized they were brainwashing us, making us accept their narrative.”

Traore emphasized the urgent need for young Africans to reclaim their history—a history that includes both the suffering and the heroism of their ancestors. He called attention to the often-overlooked sacrifices Africans made during global conflicts, including World War II, when thousands of Africans fought alongside the Allies, many of them losing their lives or being treated as expendable.

“Some don’t even know that our grandparents fought as cannon fodder and were killed like animals. Do people know that when France tested its first atomic bomb, it was black soldiers who were placed in the lethal radius to see what effect it had? It’s all in the archives,” Traore stated, urging the younger generation to seek out the truth and resist imperialist narratives.

Strengthening Russo-African Ties

The visit was not only symbolic but also highly pragmatic. President Putin warmly welcomed Traore, expressing gratitude for Burkina Faso’s participation in the commemorative events and highlighting the deepening cooperation between the two nations.

“Your visit to Russia to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory is a great symbol and it reflects the friendly character of relations between Burkina Faso and Russia,” Putin said. He recalled the contributions of some 30,000 Burkinabe who fought with the anti-Hitler coalition under the leadership of the legendary Frenchman Charles de Gaulle.

Putin also pointed to the reopening of the Russian Embassy in Ouagadougou after more than 30 years, a clear sign of renewed commitment. Economic ties, though still modest, are growing, with recent “Economic Days of Burkina Faso” held in Russia and the establishment of an intergovernmental working group to further strengthen trade and cooperation.

Education remains a cornerstone of this partnership. In 2024 and 2025, Russia more than doubled its state scholarships for Burkinabe students, and over 3,500 Burkinabe have already received higher education in Russia. The Russian House in Ouagadougou, opened in 2024, is now a hub for cultural exchange and Russian language education.

Humanitarian aid is another pillar of the relationship. In the past year, Russia has provided 25,000 tons of wheat free of charge to Burkina Faso, with more food aid on the way. Cooperation in healthcare, scientific research, and personnel training is rapidly expanding.

Fighting Terrorism and Imperialism

A significant portion of President Traore’s message focused on the security challenges facing Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region. He argued that terrorism in Africa is often a tool of modern imperialism, designed to keep African nations in a state of perpetual conflict and underdevelopment.

“The terrorists are strengthened by many foreign fighters who are not Burkinabe. There are instructors from various countries teaching them new techniques. But it’s not just terrorism—it’s imperialism. Their objective is to keep us in a permanent war, prevent us from developing, and continue to exploit our resources,” Traore asserted.

He described how modern technology, including combat drones, is being used by terrorist groups, often with the assistance of foreign professionals. Despite these challenges, Traore expressed confidence in Burkina Faso’s ability to adapt and overcome, vowing to continue the fight until the entire Sahel region is secure.

Toward African Unity and Economic Independence

Traore’s vision extends beyond Burkina Faso. He spoke passionately about the need for African unity in the face of external pressures, referencing the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as a model for emerging regional cooperation. He acknowledged the complexities of aligning economic and military systems among African nations but insisted that progress is being made.

“Those who are oppressed should unite to face this hegemony. We have achieved some progress in this field. There are many agencies to be put in place, many aspects to be leveled in the three countries. Balance is crucial, and it requires the implementation of many systems,” he explained.

Traore also highlighted Burkina Faso’s strides in agriculture, moving toward self-sufficiency and expanding exports beyond gold, the country’s traditional mainstay. This economic diversification, he argued, is essential for breaking free from the cycles of dependency imposed by former colonial powers.

Challenging Western Narratives

Throughout his visit, Traore did not shy away from criticizing what he sees as the paternalistic attitudes of some Western nations, particularly France. He accused French authorities of diminishing their own influence in Africa by clinging to outdated conceptions of their relationship with the continent.

“Every initiative we take is associated with Russia, and some say we’re influenced by Russia. Why do they have such closed eyes, as if Africa is not capable of developing, inventing, or taking initiatives? That’s what we are fighting against,” Traore declared.

He rejected the narrative, often repeated by Western leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, that young Africans are simply being manipulated by Russia. Instead, he argued, Africans are increasingly aware of their own interests and are choosing their partners based on mutual respect and benefit.

A New Chapter in Africa-Russia Relations

The visit concluded with mutual expressions of respect and optimism for the future. President Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to supporting Burkina Faso in its fight against terrorism, its pursuit of economic development, and its efforts to restore constitutional order.

“We will continue to support your country in training personnel, expanding economic ties, and providing humanitarian aid,” Putin affirmed.

President Traore, for his part, expressed deep appreciation for Russia’s support and the opportunity to learn from the Russian people’s history of resistance and sacrifice.

“During this visit, I learned a lot about culture, about history that laid the foundation of the resistance of the Russian people. I learned of sacrifices your people made, and due to these sacrifices, we are free,” Traore said.

President Ibrahim Traore’s visit to Moscow was more than a diplomatic formality—it was a powerful statement of African agency, historical consciousness, and a commitment to forging new alliances based on equality and shared interests. By openly challenging the narratives imposed by former colonial powers and embracing a partnership with Russia, Traore has not only won the hearts of Russians but also inspired many across Africa to reexamine their history and reclaim their future.

As the world watches this evolving partnership, one thing is clear: Burkina Faso, under Traore’s leadership, is determined to chart its own path—and it has found a willing partner in Russia.