Putin claims rivals copy Russian tech, suggests moving factories to Africa

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed at the Russia-Africa forum that competitors are forced to copy Russian developments and that Moscow holds leading positions in the global technology race, while also proposing to relocate some Russian industrial production to African countries due to sanctions. Putin stated Russia is open to sharing modern competencies and digital know-how with African nations, and suggested Russian businesses have significant investment potential that requires protection, with African-based enterprises operating independently of foreign policy changes. Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye separately called for developing Africa's industrial potential, emphasizing agricultural modernization, energy infrastructure, and increased technology investment. The claims contrast with reports about Russian military personnel in Yaroslavl who created a makeshift "Mad Max" vehicle resembling a HIMARS rocket system from an old UAZ truck, with technical problems including engine issues and missing coolant, highlighting a gap between Putin's technological assertions and on-the-ground conditions.