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In a significant legal ruling, an Angolan court has convicted two Russian nationals on charges of terrorism and espionage. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin were handed sentences of eight and eleven years, respectively, for their alleged roles in a conspiracy aimed at orchestrating a coup and inciting violent protests over fuel price hikes in Angola during the previous year.
Details of the Conviction
The court’s decision comes in the wake of a tumultuous period in July 2025, when widespread unrest erupted in Angola following a strike by minibus taxi operators protesting against soaring fuel costs. This unrest escalated into riots, resulting in the deaths of 22 individuals and the arrest of more than 1,600 others, according to official reports. Eyewitness accounts and human rights organisations have accused Angolan security forces of employing live ammunition against demonstrators. The government defended its actions, asserting that the use of force was proportionate and necessary to restore order.
Lakshtanov and Ratchin maintained their innocence throughout the trial, asserting that their presence in Angola was solely for cultural and business engagements. However, prosecutors alleged that the pair aimed to influence the upcoming presidential elections by backing the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the country’s largest opposition party, or by instigating a leadership change within the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA).
Links to Russian Disinformation Networks
The prosecution further implicated the two men in connections to Africa Politology, a disinformation network believed to have ties to the Wagner Group, a notorious Russian paramilitary organisation. Following the demise of Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in 2023, Africa Politology was reportedly taken over by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). This development raises questions regarding the Kremlin’s ongoing influence and operational strategies in Africa, particularly in the context of the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Historically, Angola has maintained strong ties with Russia, particularly during the Cold War, when the Soviet Union and Cuba provided significant support to the MPLA. However, under President João Lourenço, who assumed office in 2017, Angola has sought to strengthen its relationships with the United States and European nations, indicating a shift in its diplomatic posture.
Broader Implications for Angola
The sentencing of Lakshtanov and Ratchin coincides with Russia’s expanding involvement in Africa, where it has been increasingly active in military and political affairs. The Wagner Group, now rebranded as Africa Corps, has been engaged in various African nations, including the Central African Republic and Mali, providing military support to regimes facing internal challenges. The Russian presence in Africa is indicative of a broader strategy to gain influence and counter Western dominance in the region.
Alongside the two Russians, two Angolan citizens were also tried. Carlos Tomé, a sports journalist, received a suspended sentence of two years, while Francisco de Oliveira, the secretary-general of UNITA’s youth wing, was acquitted. The legal proceedings have drawn scrutiny, with appeals lodged by both the prosecution and the convicted parties, who will remain in custody as the appeals are processed.
Why it Matters
The case of Lakshtanov and Ratchin highlights the intricate interplay of local and international politics in Angola, set against the backdrop of rising tensions over economic grievances. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential for external influences to exacerbate domestic strife, particularly in nations grappling with economic volatility and political dissent. As global powers vie for influence in Africa, the outcome of this case could shape future diplomatic relations and the stability of a region already marked by unrest.