Burkina Faso's President Ibrahim Traoré traveled in Moscow to participate in Russia's 80th Victory Day celebrations, with other renowned leaders such as China's Xi Jinping and Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. His attendance at the gathering represents a startling political convergence, which many experts interpret as a direct threat to Western hegemony.

Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany, has evolved into a platform for Russia to highlight its long-standing global ties in the face of continued international tensions. With prominent leaders from Africa, Asia, and South America in attendance, the gathering exemplifies a growing trend toward multipolar collaboration.

President Traoré, speaking in Moscow, stressed Russia and Africa's deep historical and emotional ties. "We feel like family—Russia is a family for Africa too," according to him. "Our histories are intertwined." Russia made huge sacrifices to battle Nazism, and African grandfathers were forced to fight in Europe. However, we continue to be the world's forgotten people, with our role being removed from books, films, and documentaries.

Traoré's statements reflect a broader African attitude of being forgotten in global narratives, as well as a need for historical justice. His association with global individuals who are frequently viewed as counterweights to the West sends a strong message about Burkina Faso's—and Africa's—growing geopolitical assertiveness.

This unexpected convergence in Moscow could herald the birth of a new global bloc—one in which states that were previously marginalized suddenly stand united in their desire for respect, recognition, and a new international order.