Russia: Under Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso has strengthened diplomatic ties with Russia as part of a broader shift away from former colonial powers. Traoré attended key summits in Russia and met with President Vladimir Putin to deepen cooperation. A Russian military base, under the "Africa Corps," has been established near Ouagadougou to support Burkina Faso’s fight against terrorism. Military and security collaboration has intensified, with Russian personnel assisting local forces. In a symbolic move, Burkina Faso reopened the Russian embassy, closed since 1992. These developments reflect Traoré’s sovereignist vision and desire for strategic diversification. The partnership includes political, military, and diplomatic dimensions. Russia, for its part, sees Burkina Faso as a key ally in Africa. This relationship exemplifies a growing trend of African nations seeking alternatives to Western influence.