Can Russia compete with the US, China and the EU in Africa?

What happened: At a summit in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin pledged to nearly double Russia's trade with Africa to more than $50bn and accused the West of driving Africans into "debt bondage," promising a fairer deal. Key numbers: Trade target of more than $50bn, nearly double current levels. Why it matters: Previous Russian trade ambitions remain unmet, and Russia conducts less trade with all of Africa than with Belarus, raising questions about whether African governments can convert Moscow's need for partners into bargaining power. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

At a summit in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin pledged to nearly double Russia's trade with Africa to more than $50bn and accused the West of driving Africans into "debt bondage," promising a fairer deal.

Previous Russian trade ambitions remain unmet, and Russia conducts less trade with all of Africa than with Belarus, raising questions about whether African governments can convert Moscow's need for partners into bargaining power.