In a landmark ruling, an Angolan court has sentenced two Russian men to prison for their involvement in alleged plans to incite a coup and orchestrate violent protests in the country. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin received sentences of eight and 11 years, respectively, after being found guilty of terrorism and espionage. Their convictions stem from events linked to a series of deadly demonstrations over fuel price increases that erupted last year.
Escalating Violence Over Fuel Prices
The unrest in Angola was ignited between 28 and 30 July 2025, when a minibus taxi strike over soaring fuel costs spiralled into riots. This period of chaos resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals and the arrest of over 1,600, as reported by official sources. Eyewitness accounts and human rights organisations have raised grave concerns about the conduct of Angolan security forces, who were accused of using live ammunition against demonstrators. In a contentious statement, the government defended its actions as a “progressive” response to the unrest.
In a notable incident on 12 July 2025, security forces employed rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse a peaceful protest against escalating fuel prices, an action that Human Rights Watch condemned as excessive.
Allegations of Foreign Interference
Prosecutors in Angola have alleged that Lakshtanov and Ratchin were part of a broader scheme aimed at influencing the upcoming presidential elections. They purportedly sought to support the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the country’s largest opposition party, or instigate a change in leadership within the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has held power since Angola’s independence from Portugal in 1975.
The prosecution also suggested that the accused were linked to Africa Politology, a disinformation network with roots in the Wagner Group, a notorious Russian paramilitary organisation. Following the death of Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in 2023, Africa Politology was reportedly absorbed by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), with Wagner being rebranded as Africa Corps.
Shifting Geopolitical Alliances
Historically, Angola has maintained a strong relationship with Russia, particularly during the Cold War, when the Soviet Union and Cuba supported the MPLA during a protracted civil conflict. However, since President João Lourenço took office in 2017, Angola has pivoted towards strengthening ties with the United States and Europe, leaving some observers to question the implications of this latest trial for bilateral relations.
In recent years, Russia has expanded its influence across Africa. From providing security in the Central African Republic to military support in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, Russia’s presence on the continent has grown significantly. This trend raises concerns about the potential for destabilisation in regions already grappling with governance challenges.
Local Implications and Broader Repercussions
Alongside the Russian defendants, two Angolan nationals were also tried. Sports journalist Carlos Tomé received a two-year suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira, a prominent figure in UNITA’s youth wing, was acquitted. The prosecution has appealed these decisions, and both Lakshtanov and Ratchin plan to contest their convictions, remaining in custody during the appeal process.
The Russian embassy in Angola has yet to issue a statement regarding these developments.
Why it Matters
The convictions of Lakshtanov and Ratchin underscore the precarious balance of power in Angola and the potential for foreign interference in its domestic politics. As the country navigates its complex political landscape, the trial highlights critical issues surrounding human rights, governance, and international influence. The outcome could have lasting implications not only for Angola’s internal stability but also for the dynamics of Russian engagement throughout Africa, as countries grapple with the evolving nature of global alliances in a multipolar world.