The Wall Street Journal published on 1 December 2025 an article titled "Sudan Offers Russia Its First Naval Base in Africa" by Benoit Faucond and Nicholas Bariyo.
Sudan's military government has revived discussions with Moscow for a naval base on the Red Sea. Sudan is offering Russia a 25-year lease to station up to 300 troops and 4 warships--including nuclear powered ones--at Port Sudan or another Red Sea location. In exchange, Sudan would receive advanced Russian anti-aircraft systems and other weaponry at preferential prices to support its war against the Rapid Support Forces.
Comment: This naval base has been under discussion for years but always seems to encounter problems before a final deal is reached. It is not clear if agreement has actually been reached on this occasion.
