Moscow Voices Concerns Over “Militarization” of Disputed Island

The Russian Federation has strongly criticized France’s increasing military presence in Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, reigniting a long-standing dispute over the island’s sovereignty. Moscow views the buildup as an unwarranted militarization with potentially destabilizing consequences for regional peace and security.

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian ministry of Foreign affairs, stated that Russia systematically opposes the unjustified militarization of any territory, with dangerous consequences for peace and security of certain regions. She emphasized that this stance fully applies to the highly sensitive area of ​​the Indian Ocean.

This criticism comes amidst growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean, a vital trade route and strategic area. according to a recent report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), naval activity in the Indian ocean has increased by over 30% in the last five years, reflecting heightened competition between major global powers.

Sovereignty Dispute and Colonial Echoes

At the heart of the controversy lies the disputed sovereignty of Mayotte. While Mayotte is currently a French department, the Union of Comoros, an independent nation since 1975, claims the archipelago as its own. Zakharova asserted that Under international law, this island belongs to the Union of Comoros, framing the French military presence as a means to control of an overseas territory illegally held and a vestige of colonialism.

The Comoros have consistently challenged France’s control over Mayotte, raising the issue in international forums like the United Nations. The African Union also recognizes the Comoros’ claim to Mayotte.

French Response: Defending Mayotte’s Integrity

French Overseas Minister Manuel Valls has responded sharply to Russia’s accusations, accusing Moscow of actively seeking to undermine French interests globally. Valls pointed to the establishment of a Russian embassy in Moroni, the Comorian capital, and Zakharova’s statements as evidence of this strategy.

Russia seeks and will seek to harm the interests of France everywhere.The installation of an embassy of the Russian Federation in Moroni in the Comoros and the scandalous declarations of the spokesperson for the Ministry of Russian Foreign Affairs accusing France of illegally controlling ‘The archipelago are a clear signal of this strategy.

Manuel Valls, French Overseas Minister

Valls has also reaffirmed France’s commitment to defending Mayotte’s status as a French department, citing the results of two referendums held in 1974 and 1976 in which the Mahorais population voted to remain part of France.We will always defend with the same firmness the integrity of Mayotte, French department. This is the sovereign choice of Mahorais Valls stated.

Naval Support Base, Not a New Military Base

while Russia has alleged the construction of a new French military base in Mayotte, French officials clarify that the project involves upgrading existing naval support facilities. Valls had mentioned a future Naval base support and Support for French navy buildings but denied plans for a entirely new base.

The Comorian Minister of the Interior, Fakridine Mahamoud, has expressed concerns that increased militarization could exacerbate regional tensions. in my opinion, deciding to militarize to excess Mayotte is not the appropriate answer Mahamoud stated, highlighting the potential for escalating conflict.

Geopolitical Implications and Future Outlook

The dispute over Mayotte reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean region. Russia’s criticism of France’s military presence can be seen as part of a larger effort to challenge Western influence and expand its own strategic footprint. The situation warrants close monitoring, as further escalation could have meaningful implications for regional stability and international relations.