Putin congratulates Museveni on re-election victory, hopes for strengthened ties
In a formal congratulatory message addressed to Museveni, Putin noted that Russia-Uganda relations have “traditionally been of a friendly nature” and expressed confidence that Museveni’s continued leadership would further strengthen mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni upon his re-election, reaffirming the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries. (File photo)
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni, upon his re-election, reaffirming the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In a formal congratulatory message addressed to Museveni, Putin noted that Russia-Uganda relations have “traditionally been of a friendly nature” and expressed confidence that Museveni’s continued leadership would further strengthen mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation.
“It is my hope that your activities as head of state will further contribute to the development of mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in various fields,” reads part of Putin’s message.
The Russian leader also wished Museveni success in his duties, as well as good health and well-being.
Museveni was re-elected earlier this month following Uganda’s general elections, extending his presidency for another five-year term until 2031.
His leadership has been characterised by active engagement in regional affairs, South-South co-operation, and Uganda’s participation in multilateral platforms such as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Uganda and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations for several decades, with cooperation spanning political dialogue, education, military training, energy, and trade.
In recent years, relations between Moscow and several African capitals have gained renewed momentum amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics.
Putin’s message adds Russia to a growing list of world leaders who have formally congratulated Museveni on his electoral victory.
Other world leaders congratulate Museveni
President Museveni has received an outpouring of congratulatory messages from leaders across the globe following his landslide victory in the just-concluded presidential election.
Several heads of state have commended Museveni on securing a seventh term in office, while reaffirming their countries’ diplomatic ties with Uganda and expressing hope for continued cooperation as the country embarks on a new political chapter.
According to official results released by the Electoral Commission (EC) this month, Museveni of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party won the January presidential election with 7,946,772 votes (71.65%). National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi came second with 2,741,238 votes (24.72%) in the eight-man race.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame, in a congratulatory message shared on social media, praised Museveni’s re-election and expressed optimism about continued cooperation between the two countries.
“I extend my best wishes to you and the people of Uganda as you continue to serve your nation for the prosperity of your people. I look forward to the continued strong and productive cooperation between our two countries,” Kagame said.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan also congratulated Museveni, describing his victory as a reflection of the confidence and trust Ugandans have in his leadership and vision. She said she looks forward to deepening the fraternal and historical ties between Tanzania and Uganda.
Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye likewise congratulated Museveni, expressing hope that his visionary leadership will continue to steer Uganda forward and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi also extended his congratulations, noting that Museveni’s victory reflects the Ugandan people’s confidence in his leadership. He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening relations with Uganda, building on the positive momentum in bilateral ties and Museveni’s three-day official visit to Cairo in August 2025.
During the visit, the two leaders highlighted the strategic importance of the Nile River and emphasised its equitable utilisation among Nile Basin countries to promote shared prosperity and Pan-African unity. The Nile Basin countries include Burundi, DR Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir also congratulated Museveni on his landslide victory, expressing hope for continued collaboration to advance bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, wished Museveni success in his new term and expressed hope for stronger relations between the two countries. Somalia’s President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud also congratulated Museveni, commending him for his role in promoting regional stability and reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to strengthening ties with Uganda.
The messages followed earlier congratulatory remarks from Kenyan President William Ruto, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu.