In a significant legal development, two Russian nationals have been sentenced by an Angolan court for terrorism and espionage. Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin face prison terms of eight and eleven years, respectively, after being found guilty of plotting a coup and inciting violent protests related to fuel price increases in Angola last year. Their case highlights the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play in Angola, a country with a history of Russian influence.
Background of the Case
Lakshtanov and Ratchin were arrested following widespread unrest sparked by a minibus taxi strike from July 28 to 30, 2025, which escalated into riots resulting in 22 deaths and over 1,600 arrests. The protests, initially triggered by soaring fuel prices, were met with violent crackdowns by Angolan security forces, who faced allegations of using live ammunition against demonstrators. The Angolan government has defended its actions, describing its response as a “progressive” use of force. In contrast, Human Rights Watch condemned the excessive measures taken against peaceful protesters earlier in July.
The Angolan authorities accused the Russian men of attempting to destabilise the government ahead of the 2026 presidential elections. Prosecutors claimed that Lakshtanov and Ratchin intended to finance the opposition party UNITA, Angola’s largest, or orchestrate a leadership change within the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has held power since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
Links to Russian Disinformation Networks
Prosecutors also alleged that the pair had connections to Africa Politology, a disinformation network linked to the Wagner Group, a paramilitary organisation known for its operations in various African countries. Following the death of Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in 2023, Africa Politology was reportedly absorbed by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), raising concerns about the Kremlin’s ongoing influence in African affairs.
In recent years, Russia has sought to expand its foothold in Africa, with the Wagner Group providing military support to regimes in the Central African Republic and Mali. The rebranding of Wagner to Africa Corps and its subsequent integration into Russia’s military apparatus signal a shift in strategy, as Moscow aims to consolidate its presence across the continent.
Angola’s Changing International Relations
Historically, Angola maintained strong ties with Russia during the Cold War, when the Soviet Union supported the MPLA during the country’s civil conflict. However, since President João Lourenço took office in 2017, Angola has sought to strengthen its relationships with the United States and European nations. This shift has created a complex backdrop for the current legal proceedings against Lakshtanov and Ratchin, reflecting a nuanced balancing act between international partnerships.
In addition to the Russian nationals, two Angolan citizens were involved in the trial. Carlos Tomé, a sports journalist, received a two-year suspended sentence, while Francisco de Oliveira, the secretary-general of UNITA’s youth branch, was acquitted. Prosecutors have lodged appeals against these sentences, as have Lakshtanov and Ratchin, who will remain in custody during the appeal process.
Implications for Angola and International Relations
The conviction of the two Russians underscores the broader implications of international influence and internal political stability in Angola. As the country navigates its relationships with global powers, the case raises questions about the potential for foreign interference in domestic politics and the integrity of Angolan sovereignty.
**Why it Matters**
This case is emblematic of the shifting geopolitical landscape in Africa, where traditional alliances are being tested, and new dynamics are emerging. The outcome of the appeals and the ongoing scrutiny of Angola’s political climate will be critical in shaping the nation’s future and its international relationships. As Angola grapples with these challenges, the ramifications of this trial will resonate beyond its borders, potentially impacting Russia’s strategy and influence in Africa as a whole.