Geopolitical Dynamics Of Russia- Ukraine War And Political Instability In Africa

Christopher Ikem Olisah, Celestine Ogechukwu Okafor, Gloria Mayine Paul

Keywords: Geopolitics, political stability, Russia-Ukraine war, territorial disputes

Abstract

This paper examines the geopolitical dynamics in the Russia-Ukraine war and the impact of these on peace and political stability in the African continent. The paper argues that the peace, stability and prosperity of the African continent seem to be gravely threatened by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The paper relied on documentary methods to gather data and data were content analyzed. The theoretical framework for analyses in the paper is the Geopolitics Theory. Findings reveal that the expansionist tendencies of Russia portend attempts by Putin to recreate the Russian empire. Also, NATO and EU geopolitical ambitions have significantly contributed to the exacerbation of the conflict. The paper concludes that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine contributes to account for the escalating political unrest and instability in Africa through military coups. This is as sanctions imposed on Russia by Western countries have resulted to high inflation due to scarcity of fertilizer, decreased agricultural production, disruptions in the supply of wheat and other food commodities in the African continent. The paper recommends that African leaders should focus on good governance, securitization and reduce their reliance on food imports from external actors.

Author Biography

Christopher Ikem Olisah, Celestine Ogechukwu Okafor, Gloria Mayine Paul

Department of Political Science, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria.

chrisolisah@yahoo.com, gloriapaul.gmp@gmail.com

Corresponding Email: ocelestineogechukwu@gmail.com

FUWJSS