Putin’s initiative to strengthen ties with Morocco was a brilliant move, as it eases tensions and fosters a setting conducive to dialogue.
Finally, approaching Christmas in the initial year of Trump’s second term, the Moroccan leadership can rest assured that there is zero chance of Trump reversing his stance on Western Sahara. This certainty doesn’t stem from Trump’s words or actions, nor even from Israel—which practically acts as Morocco’s paid lobbyist in DC—but from Russia. Indeed, Russia has unexpectedly stepped in to offer Morocco backing on the Sahara issue, effectively securing its position in the region given its strong relations with Algeria. It seemed as if Russia’s foreign minister Sergei Lavrov was racing against Steve Witkoff, Trump’s informal envoy, to facilitate a peace understanding between Rabat and Algiers. Despite Algiers rejecting Morocco’s proposals to reduce military expenditures mutually, Putin’s strategy to draw Morocco closer proved to be inspired, calming hostilities and creating space for constructive talks.
At a press conference in mid-October, Lavrov announced Russia’s readiness to endorse Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara contingent on unanimous agreement within the United Nations Security Council.
“The Sahara issue, which has persisted for 50 years, initially aimed for a referendum, but circumstances evolved,” Lavrov explained. “The Moroccan autonomy proposal fits within the framework of self-determination. This approach could serve as a solution provided it aligns with United Nations resolutions and receives UN endorsement.”
He further stated, “If all parties find it acceptable, so do we.”
Suddenly, any uncertainties surrounding Morocco-Russia relations vanish. Relations have reverted to the pre-Ukraine conflict phase when they sealed an association agreement in 2018, followed by discussions of Russia constructing water desalination and nuclear power facilities. In a surprising turn, Trump’s representative in the region has been outmaneuvered by Russia, positioning Morocco for significant gains in the years ahead. Russia remains a crucial partner for Morocco, elevating Rabat’s ‘non-aligned’ stance to an enhanced level. Morocco could be described as ‘super non-aligned,’ skillfully balancing relationships with both the U.S. and Russia simultaneously—a diplomatic feat deserving praise for Nourad Bourita’s efforts.
In several respects, Morocco arguably enjoys closer ties with Moscow than with Washington, and many of its future ambitions hinge on this alliance and its benefits. With Russia’s backing, Morocco can leverage the ‘Russia card’ when advantageous opportunities arise. This dynamic contrasts with Morocco’s approach to the U.S., where its engagement is primarily mediated through Israel, acting as its principal lobbyist via the influential AIPAC. The fragile nature of this tripartite relationship remains unpredictable, and many Moroccans regard Israel’s contributions on their behalf as insufficient so far.
Drawing nearer to Russia now represents a prudent and advantageous strategy, especially as Trump faces pressure from two global powers—Israel and Russia—over Moroccan affairs. Recent commentary highlights Russia’s precarious role, with one outlet noting Moscow’s balancing act in the region as it strives to maintain amicable relationships with Algeria, a prime customer of Russian arms. However, this analysis overlooks the irony: it’s Morocco that skillfully navigates its non-aligned status with the U.S., a condition likely sustainable only during Trump’s tenure—and potentially destabilized by his unpredictable conduct, as recently demonstrated with China. This arrangement genuinely defines a ‘special relationship,’ where one party permits the other to engage amicably—even intimately—with rivals without causing discord at home.
Russia’s maneuver was smart in showcasing its superpower status, capable of swiftly influencing a nation’s aggressive policies. Importantly, Russia’s clout across Africa continues to expand. Lavrov’s visits command respect, making him a star among African leaders, while Witkoff’s appearances seem comparatively negligible. Closer Russia-Morocco ties mutually benefit both countries’ global positions, with Morocco seen as an ideal gateway to francophone African nations. However, if Morocco tells the U.S., “we do love you, but won’t accept dictation on our alliances,” it raises questions about the continent’s future. Who might follow Morocco’s lead? Perhaps that was Lavrov’s shrewd calculation. What a crafty strategist!
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