Russian-backed forces retake the capital of Sudan

The biggest updates come from Sudan, where the recapture of Khartoum has quietly turned the country into Russia’s most important strategic fallback outside the Mediterranean. With Russian proxy support from Africa Corps, the Sudanese Armed Forces expelled the Rapid Support Forces from the capital, allowing the government to return after nearly three years in exile. This military success gives Moscow leverage at a critical moment, as its naval position in Tartus has become increasingly fragile after political changes in Syria. Port Sudan now functions as Russia’s practical alternative, offering Red Sea access, logistics support, and a gateway for influence into Africa and the Indian Ocean. Russia’s involvement remains limited and indirect, calibrated to secure long-term access rather than fight openly. In effect, Sudan has become Moscow’s insurance policy, but one that remains vulnerable if rival powers decide to contest it.

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