Uganda and Russia have pledged their commitment to strengthening military and military-technical cooperation following a high-level meeting between Russian Ambassador to Uganda, Vladlen Semivolos, and Uganda’s Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth.
The meeting, held at the Military Headquarters in Mbuya in Kampala, included top defence ministry and military officials from UPDF. The Ambassador was accompanied by officials from the embassy.
According to reports, the discussions focused on deepening bilateral ties in defense and security, with both sides expressing a shared interest in enhancing military-technical collaboration.
Ambassador Semivolos reiterated Russia’s readiness to support Uganda in areas such as defense modernization, training, and strategic partnerships.
Minister Oboth-Oboth welcomed Russia’s continued engagement, emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to diversifying its defense partnerships to enhance national security.
Expanding Military-Technical Ties
Uganda and Russia have maintained steady military relations over the years, with Russia playing a key role in supplying military equipment and training Ugandan defense personnel. This latest meeting indicates a renewed focus on enhancing that cooperation in areas such as arms procurement, joint training programs, and technological exchange.
Observers note that Uganda’s expanding defense ties with Russia come at a time of shifting global alliances, with Kampala maintaining a balanced foreign policy approach that seeks to engage multiple international partners.
Geopolitical Implications
The news of military cooperation between Uganda and Russia is expected to draw interest from global actors, particularly given the broader geopolitical landscape. While Uganda has long-standing defense ties with Western partners, its engagements with Russia highlight the country’s intent to pursue a multi-faceted foreign policy.
