Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has pledged Moscow’s support to Mozambique in its fight against an Islamist insurgency in the gas-rich northern province of Cabo Delgado. Speaking during a visit to Maputo on Thursday, Lavrov said Russia would back President Daniel Chapo’s efforts to restore stability, eliminate what he described as the “terrorist threat” and strengthen Mozambique’s sovereignty. Cabo Delgado has been battling an armed insurgency since 2017, with militants linked to the Islamic State group carrying out attacks against civilians and security forces. The violence, including reports of killings and abductions, has displaced thousands of residents and disrupted economic activity in the resource-rich region.
The province is home to some of Africa’s largest natural gas reserves, attracting major international energy companies. However, insecurity has delayed several major gas projects and complicated efforts to fully develop the sector. Mozambique’s government has received military assistance from regional and international partners. Rwandan troops have been deployed to Cabo Delgado since 2021 to support Mozambican forces, while the European Union has provided financial and training support through its security assistance programs. Lavrov’s visit is part of a wider African tour that includes stops in Ethiopia and Niger, as Russia continues to expand diplomatic, security and economic ties across the continent. Moscow has increasingly sought a greater role in Africa, particularly in security cooperation, as several countries look for alternatives to traditional Western partnerships.
