Russia announces recruitment for service in African corps
Russia is expanding its presence and influence in Africa, as confirmed by the recent visit of the deputy defense minister to the leader of eastern Libya, and the decision to form an African corps of the Russian army. This article will explain the background, the goals, and the implications of this move, as well as the details of the recruitment process for the service in the African corps.
Background
The formation of the African corps is a clear signal that Russia has significant interests on the continent and that it will continue to oppose the influence of Washington and Paris in the coming period.
The visit of the deputy defense minister Junus-Beka Yevkurov to the marshal Khalifa Haftar, the leader of eastern Libya, was a practical realization of the agreements reached at the 11th Conference on International Security in Moscow, as well as at the military-technical forum Army-2023.
Russia will seek to achieve several objectives by forming the African corps, according to Russian analysts. Politically, it will imply support and protection of the sovereign authorities of African states. Militarily, it will almost certainly involve the establishment of Russian bases in Africa.
Economically, the influence in African countries can open the doors for direct involvement in the extraction and processing of ores such as gold, uranium, platinum, as well as various lanthanides (better known as “rare earths” or rare-earth elements) that play a key role in the production of semiconductors.
Recruitment
The Ministry of Defense of Russia has announced a competition for military service in the African corps under a contract with a starting salary of 280,000 rubles (about 3,000 euros) per month. The competition is open to Russian citizens who have completed their compulsory military service or have a military rank, and who are between 18 and 40 years old.
The candidates must also have a good command of English or French, as well as a basic knowledge of the history, culture, and geography of Africa.
The service in the African corps will last for two years, with the possibility of extension. The contract will include benefits such as health insurance, housing allowance, and travel expenses. The service will also provide an opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills in the field of international security and cooperation.
Influence in Africa
Russia is determined to increase its role and influence in Africa, as evidenced by the decision to form an African corps of the Russian army. This move will have political, military, and economic implications for the continent and the world.
The recruitment for the service in the African corps is a chance for those who are interested in joining the Russian army and participating in its missions in Africa. The competition is open until December 31, 2023, and the details can be found on the official website of the Ministry of Defense of Russia.
