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In a significant legal ruling, an Angolan court has convicted two Russian nationals, Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin, on charges of terrorism and espionage. The court’s decision follows allegations that the pair conspired to orchestrate a coup and instigate violent protests linked to rising fuel prices in Angola last year. Lakshtanov received an eight-year prison term, while Ratchin was sentenced to eleven years. Both men have denied the accusations, asserting their presence in Angola was solely for cultural and business purposes.
Context of the Charges
The charges against Lakshtanov and Ratchin are rooted in events that unfolded from 28 to 30 July 2025, when a minibus taxi strike over fuel price increases escalated into widespread riots. Official reports indicate that these disturbances resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals and the arrest of over 1,600 people. Human Rights Watch previously condemned the Angolan government’s response, which included the use of live ammunition against protesters. The government defended its actions, claiming that its “progressive” use of force was warranted under the circumstances, particularly after peaceful protests had turned violent.
Prosecutors contend that the Russian nationals sought to influence Angola’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 presidential elections. Their alleged plan involved providing financial support to the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the country’s largest opposition party, and attempting to destabilise the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has been in power since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
Connections to Russian Disinformation Network
Further complicating the case is the alleged association of Lakshtanov and Ratchin with Africa Politology, a disinformation network reportedly linked to the Wagner Group, a private military company with close ties to the Russian government. Following the death of Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in 2023, Africa Politology was reportedly taken over by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) and rebranded as Africa Corps. This network has been active in various African nations, providing support to regimes such as that of Faustin-Archange Touadéra in the Central African Republic.
The historical ties between Angola and Russia date back to the Cold War, when the Soviet Union supported the MPLA during Angola’s civil war. However, since President João Lourenço took office in 2017, Angola has sought to strengthen its diplomatic and economic relations with the United States and European nations, signalling a shift in its foreign policy.
Reactions and Legal Proceedings
Amidst the convictions, two Angolan nationals were also involved in the proceedings. Carlos Tomé, a sports journalist, received a two-year suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira, the secretary-general of UNITA’s youth wing, was acquitted. Appeals have been lodged by both the prosecution and the defendants, although Lakshtanov and Ratchin will remain incarcerated as their cases are reviewed.
The Russian embassy in Angola has yet to issue a comment regarding the matter, which continues to draw international attention and scrutiny.
Why it Matters
This case encapsulates the complex interplay of geopolitical interests in Africa, particularly as nations navigate their relationships with Russia amidst rising tensions and unrest. The outcomes of these legal proceedings could significantly impact Angola’s political environment and its diplomatic relations with both Russia and the West. As countries grapple with the implications of foreign influence and domestic stability, the situation underscores the need for vigilance in safeguarding democratic processes and human rights amid external pressures.
