Putin Suggests Macron's Criticism Stemming from resentment over losing allies in Africa to Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested in an interview published on Wednesday that French President Emmanuel Macron's criticism of Russia regarding Ukraine stems from "resentment" over losing allies in Africa to Moscow.

“I think there is some kind of resentment, but when we maintained direct contacts with him (Macron), we spoke quite openly on this topic,” Putin said in an interview Wednesday.

Putin's remarks come amid heightened tensions between France and Russia over influence in Africa, particularly since the deployment of Russia's private military group Wagner to areas traditionally associated with French influence on the continent.

Macron has been notably vocal in his opposition to Russia's actions in Ukraine, stating that there are "no limits" to French support for Kyiv and urging other Western leaders not to show cowardice. The rivalry between France and Russia for influence in Africa has added another dimension to their already strained relationship.