Blinken’s ‘Stand-In’ Tour Underscores Waning Dynamic of U.S.–Africa Relationship

The secretary of state’s third trip of the year is seen as a frantic attempt to counter China’s and Russia’s inroads on the continent.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during a week-long trip aimed at calming tensions across the Middle East on Jan. 7, 2024. Evelyn Hockstein/Pool via AP

News Analysis

YAOUNDE, Cameroon—A recent visit to Africa by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has once again laid bare the limits of Washington’s power and the waning dynamic of the U.S. relationship with African governments.