Africa

Russia’s Pacific Fleet frigate reaches Port of Massawa in Eritrea

Russia's Marshall Shaposhnikov is pictured at the Port of Massawa in Eritrea following its arrival on March 28, 2024. (Photo: Eritrea Ministry of Information)

By Foreign Reporter | Saturday, March 30, 2024

Over the past decade, the bilateral relationship between Eritrea and Russia has grown stronger.

The Marshall Shaposhnikov, a frigate from the Russian Pacific Fleet, arrived in Massawa, Eritrea, last week, marking the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Eritrea.

The Eritrean Navy extended a warm welcome upon its arrival on March 28, 2024, with senior officials, military commanders, and Russian Ambassador Igor Mozgo attending the ceremony. The officials and commanders toured the frigate, learning about its objectives and history.

Proceedings following the arrival of Russia's Marshall Shaposhnikov in Massawa, Eritrea, on March 28, 2024. (Photo: Eritrea Ministry of Information)

The vessel is scheduled to remain docked until April 5, with various cultural and sporting activities planned during the port call, including sightseeing tours and friendly matches between the frigate's crew and the hosts.

Over the past decade, the bilateral relationship between Eritrea and Russia has grown stronger.

Eritrean and Russian officials are pictured following the arrival of Russia's Marshall Shaposhnikov in Massawa, Eritrea, on March 28, 2024. (Photo: Eritrea Ministry of Information)

During Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Eritrea notably stood with Russia as one of only four countries to vote against a UN General Assembly resolution condemning the invasion. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki openly declared support for Russia's actions in Ukraine in 2023.

Eritrea is critical to Russia, particularly in maintaining a permanent military presence in the Red Sea, a long-standing objective of the Russian government.

Proceedings following the arrival of Russia's Marshall Shaposhnikov in Massawa, Eritrea, on March 28, 2024. (Photo: Eritrea Ministry of Information)

Last year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praised the logistical capabilities of the Massawa port during his inaugural state visit to Eritrea.

Notably, India's ships of the First Training Squadron visited the Port of Massawa on April 23-25, 2022.