Morocco's Strategic Reevaluation of Russia Amid Sahara Conflict
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Morocco is reassessing its diplomatic approach towards Russia due to recent developments in the Sahara conflict. The re-evaluation comes as Russia's strategic relations with Algeria and its influence on the United Nations Security Council are being closely examined.
Kamel El Ghamam, the President of the National Youth Front for the Moroccan Sahara, highlighted that Morocco has lagged in identifying the true adversary in the Sahara conflict. He emphasized that understanding this issue requires considering the international network of interests and alliances, particularly those involving Russia.
During a conference organized by the National Youth Front for the Moroccan Sahara in the city of Khemisset, El Ghamam noted that recent developments within the Security Council necessitate a reassessment of Morocco's diplomatic tools with Moscow. He pointed out the strategic relations between Russia and Algeria, which could impact Russia's stance on the Sahara issue.
El Ghamam referenced the significant disparity in trade volumes between Russia and Morocco compared to Russia and Algeria. In 2025, trade between Russia and Morocco amounted to approximately $630 million, while trade with Algeria reached around $3.2 billion. He also noted Russia's substantial military and strategic cooperation with Algeria, which has been ongoing for decades. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia accounted for 48% of Algeria's major arms imports between 2020 and 2024.
On October 30, 2026, Russia used its veto power against a U.S.-sponsored resolution to renew the mandate of the MINURSO mission, despite receiving support from 11 members and three abstentions. Moscow proposed an alternative resolution for a one-year technical extension of the mission, which did not secure the required majority. These developments have raised questions about Russia's strategic calculations and the influence of its relations with Algeria on its positions regarding the conflict.
El Ghamam stressed the importance of distinguishing between Moscow's official justifications for its positions and the strategic backgrounds that may influence its decisions. He acknowledged that while Morocco-Russia relations have a historical depth, they have not yet reached the level of strategic interconnection seen in Russia-Algeria relations. He called for expanding cooperation between Rabat and Moscow in economic, commercial, scientific, and technological fields to build more shared interests.
El Ghamam also highlighted the need for Morocco to adopt a more proactive approach in engaging with international actors, particularly those with significant influence on the Security Council. He suggested that Morocco should leverage its strategic partnerships and diplomatic tools to counterbalance the influence of external actors in the Sahara conflict.
The re-evaluation of Morocco's diplomatic strategy towards Russia is part of a broader effort to address the complex dynamics of the Sahara conflict. By understanding the broader geopolitical context and the strategic interests of key international players, Morocco aims to navigate the challenges posed by the conflict more effectively.
