Russia praises Morocco's balanced stance on Ukraine amid growing ties

Friday 17 October 2025 - 11:50

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov commended Morocco for its “balanced, measured position on the situation in Ukraine and surrounding areas” during a high-level meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Moscow on Thursday. The discussion underscored Morocco’s efforts to maintain neutrality while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.

Lavrov acknowledged Morocco’s understanding of the broader implications of the Ukraine conflict, citing a shared recognition of the “root causes of the crisis,” including NATO’s actions and alleged violations of the rights of Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine. “In Rabat, as in most other global south and east capitals, there is understanding that a sustainable settlement is impossible without addressing these issues,” Lavrov stated.

Morocco’s diplomatic balancing act

Morocco’s position on the Ukraine conflict has drawn praise from Russian officials. Despite abstaining from multiple United Nations votes condemning Russia’s military actions, Morocco was the first Maghreb country to send military aid to Ukraine, delivering 20 renovated T-72B main battle tanks.

This delicate diplomacy reflects Morocco’s aim to maintain constructive relations with Russia while preserving its strategic partnership with Western allies, including the United States, where Morocco holds the status of a major non-NATO ally.

In an interview with TASS last year, Russia’s Ambassador to Rabat, Vladimir Baybakov, praised Morocco for not engaging in anti-Russian actions like sanctions imposed by Western powers.

At the same time, Morocco has worked to secure Russia’s “qualified neutrality” on the Sahara dispute, a key foreign policy priority for Rabat. Analysts note that Morocco has been encouraged by Russia’s voting record at the United Nations regarding this contentious issue.

Economic ties and strategic cooperation

The relationship between Morocco and Russia has deepened in recent years, supported by significant economic ties. Trade between the two countries grew by 42% in 2021, with Morocco depending heavily on Russian imports of ammonia and fertilizer, critical to its agricultural sector. Other areas of cooperation include energy, fishing, and nuclear development.

Lavrov and Bourita signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Russian-Moroccan inter-ministerial working committee aimed at enhancing their strategic partnership. The two officials also discussed preparations for the upcoming tenth anniversary of the strategic partnership agreement signed in 2016 by His Majesty King Mohammed VI and President Vladimir Putin.

Broader implications for North Africa

The Russia-Ukraine war has had ripple effects across North Africa, influencing regional diplomacy and economic relations. While Morocco has sought to maintain neutrality, both Ukraine and Russia are expanding their presence on the African continent. Ukraine plans to increase its diplomatic missions in Africa from 13 to 23, while Russia currently operates 47 embassies across the region.

According to a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace report, Morocco and other Maghreb states have long pursued an autonomous foreign policy. “Governments in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia continue to hedge and diversify their relations, wary of picking sides,” the report observes.

Morocco’s nuanced approach reflects its broader strategy of balancing relationships with major powers while advancing its national interests.