'West Pursues Policy of Deliberately Downplaying USSR’s Role in Africa’s' History: Russian Diplomat
18:33 05.05.2026 (Updated: 18:50 05.05.2026)
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The USSR played a comprehensive role in the emergence of independent African states — from military support to training personnel and diplomatic protection, Alexander Bryantsev, Chargé d'Affaires of Russia in the Republic of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, told Sputnik Africa.
In Angola, graduates of Soviet universities formed the backbone of the state system after the country gained independence in 1975, ensuring the country’s stability during a difficult period.
Cooperation was built on the principles of equality and without political conditions — unlike Western models, which were often accompanied by restrictions and demands, according to the diplomat.
“The main lesson [of the era of decolonization, including interaction with the USSR, for Africa] is the absolute value of sovereignty and the need to rely on one’s own resources while remaining open to mutually beneficial cooperation. The experience of decolonization shows that sustainable development is possible where partnership is built without dictate and with due regard for national priorities and interests. It is precisely these principles that today underlie Russian-African interaction.”
In Angola, graduates of Soviet universities formed the backbone of the state system after the country gained independence in 1975, ensuring the country’s stability during a difficult period.
Cooperation was built on the principles of equality and without political conditions — unlike Western models, which were often accompanied by restrictions and demands, according to the diplomat.
“The main lesson [of the era of decolonization, including interaction with the USSR, for Africa] is the absolute value of sovereignty and the need to rely on one’s own resources while remaining open to mutually beneficial cooperation. The experience of decolonization shows that sustainable development is possible where partnership is built without dictate and with due regard for national priorities and interests. It is precisely these principles that today underlie Russian-African interaction.”
